Key facts
- Two coalition parties are distancing themselves from the free meals program.
- A third coalition party fears electoral repercussions due to the program.
- 62% of the public opposed the program in an early October poll.
- President Prabowo's approval rating fell to 44.5% in October.
- Authorities arrested program officials on corruption charges in June.
- Approximately 1,700 people fell ill from food poisoning incidents in early October.
Allies of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto are beginning to distance themselves from his flagship free meals program, which has been marred by food poisoning incidents and corruption allegations. Two parties within his broad coalition have decided to distance themselves, while a third fears the program's issues will negatively impact their electoral prospects. These parties represent over a quarter of the coalition's parliamentary majority. The program, a cornerstone of Prabowo's election campaign, aims to provide free meals to 83 million children and pregnant women. However, numerous food poisoning incidents and graft allegations have led to public questioning of the initiative. A poll in early October indicated that 62% of the public opposed the program, and the president's approval rating has fallen to its lowest point since taking office. In June, authorities arrested program officials on corruption charges, and in August, dozens of families filed a police complaint. Early October saw approximately 1,700 people fall ill in four separate incidents. Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has publicly apologized for the food poisoning cases. The president's office and the National Nutrition Agency did not respond to requests for comment. Gerindra spokesperson Sugiat Santoso stated the coalition remains strong and the program is not intended for electoral gains, while the National Mandate Party affirmed its commitment to supporting the program and addressing shortcomings collectively.