Habibie Center
Add to list
In his relatively short time as President of the Republic of Indonesia, Habibie has maintained his modern outlook on democracy and implemented it in every decision-making process. Habibie's important role in accelerating the democratic process in Indonesia is well known by the national and international community so that he is considered the "Father of Democracy". His commitment to democracy is real. When the MPR, the highest institution in Indonesia with the authority to elect the President and Vice President, rejected Habibie's accountability speech, he bravely withdrew from the election of a new President. He did this, besides the MPR's rejection of his speech did not prevent him from continuing to participate in the elections, and the belief of his supporters that he would still be able to outperform other presidential candidates, believing that once his speech was rejected by the MPR it would be unethical for him to continue running in the elections. This decision is also intended as a political education of the meaning of a democracy.