TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Political analyst Ray Rangkuti believes there are at least three possible reasons for the impending replacement of the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Satryo Soemantri Brodjonegoro.
Ray suggested that the factors behind this change are political differences and the controversies that have recently surrounded Satryo.
"Firstly, it's because of the previous events (the civil servant demonstration at the Ministry). Secondly, it may be seen as a failure to suppress the 'Dark Indonesia' student movement," said Ray when met in Rawamangun, East Jakarta, on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. The third factor, he added, could be due to Satryo's different views compared to those of President Prabowo's.
Ray opined that Satryo has a distinct interpretation of academic freedom. Satryo, according to Ray, tends to support academic freedom, which contrasts with Prabowo's perspective on campus activities.
"Pak Prabowo doesn't want any demonstrations on campuses from the start. Meanwhile, the current minister feels that it's freedom of expression, academic freedom," said Ray. "Aside from the civil servant demonstration, [Satryo's] perspective on the world of education actually is good," he added.
News regarding a reshuffle in Prabowo's Red and White Cabinet has been circulating since the morning. One of those rumored to be affected by the cabinet reshuffle is Satryo.
This speculation emerged after the All-Indonesia Student Executive Board or BEM SI urged President Prabowo to dismiss poorly-performing ministers, including Satryo, during the 'Dark Indonesia' protest at the Horse Statue, Central Jakarta, on Monday, February 17, 2025.
It is rumored that Satryo will be replaced by Brian Yuliarto, a professor who previously ran for the position of Rector of Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) for the 2025-2030 term.
Eka Yudha Saputra contributed to the writing of this article.
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