Gus Miftah Resigns as President’s Envoy for Religious Harmony
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto expressed respect for the decision of Miftah Maulana Habiburrahman, better known as Gus Miftah, to resign as Special Envoy for Religious Harmony and the Development of Religious Facilities.
In a recent interview, Prabowo lauded Gus Miftah’s action, calling it a “responsible action, a chivalrous action”.
“I haven’t seen it myself, but I received reports that he has resigned. My comment is, I think it is a responsible action, a chivalrous action,” Prabowo stated, speaking from the terrace of the Merdeka Palace in Central Jakarta on Friday evening.
Prabowo shared his acquaintance with Miftah, describing him as a figure who regularly engaged with the community through socialization and talks. “Perhaps his language was not intended to be malicious, not to insult, but he missed it, it was wrong, he said it wrong,” Prabowo explained. “He realized he was wrong, he resigned, I think that is clear.”
The President acknowledged the rarity of such accountability within Indonesia, where individuals often hesitate to take responsibility for their actions. “So we respect it, but yes, he realizes he was wrong,” Prabowo added.
Prabowo confirmed that he would be searching for a replacement for Gus Miftah. He has not yet disclosed who the successor will be.
Miftah announced his resignation at a press conference held at the Ora Aji Islamic Boarding School in Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region on Friday.
“Today, with all humility and sincerity, and with full awareness, I would like to convey a decision that I have pondered very deeply. After prayer, reflection, and istighfar, I have decided to resign from my duties as Special Envoy of the President in the field of religious harmony and the construction of religious facilities,” Miftah declared, his voice trembling with emotion. He emphasized that this decision was made of his own volition, not due to pressure from any individual or group. “This decision was based on a deep feeling of love, respect and responsibility for President Prabowo Subianto and the entire community”.
* How do religious figures in Indonesia generally navigate public scrutiny, and what are the potential consequences for their roles and reputations when controversies arise?
## Gus Miftah Resigns as President’s Envoy: A Conversation
**Jonathan Smith:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re discussing the recent resignation of Gus Miftah as Indonesia’s Special Envoy for Religious Harmony and the Development of Religious Facilities. Joining us is political analyst Dr. Aisyah Rahman. Dr. Rahman, thank you for being here.
**Dr. Aisyah Rahman:** Thank you for having me.
**Jonathan Smith:** Gus Miftah’s resignation has been making headlines. He stepped down following a public controversy. Can you shed some light on what led to this decision?
**Dr. Aisyah Rahman:** Certainly.
Gus Miftah’s resignation came after a significant public uproar regarding a video recording of him interacting with a street vendor in Magelang, Java. While the video itself lacks clear context, it sparked accusations of disrespect towards the vendor and [1] led to calls for his resignation. This incident triggered a broader debate about the role of religious figures in public life and the expectations placed upon them.
**Jonathan Smith:** And how has the president responded to Gus Miftah’s resignation?
**Dr. Aisyah Rahman:** President Prabowo Subianto expressed respect for Gus Miftah’s decision, calling it a “responsible action” [1]. While the President hasn’t delved into specifics, his statement suggests an understanding of the public pressure that led to this resignation.
**Jonathan Smith:** What are the potential implications of this event for religious harmony in Indonesia?
**Dr. Aisyah Rahman:** This incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding religious figures and their conduct in Indonesia. It underscores the importance of accountability and the need for religious leaders to navigate public scrutiny with care. While Gus Miftah’s resignation may quell the immediate controversy, it also prompts a broader conversation about the expectations placed on those in positions of religious authority.
**Jonathan Smith:** Dr. Rahman, thank you for sharing your insights on this complex issue.
**Dr. Aisyah Rahman:** My pleasure.
