VP Gibran’s Eid al-Adha Prayer at Istiqlal Mosque-Where’s Prabowo?

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka led Indonesia’s Eid al-Adha prayers at Jakarta’s Istiqlal Mosque on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in a high-profile display of religious observance as the country’s political elite prepare for a pivotal presidential election cycle. The ceremony, attended by senior government officials and religious leaders, underscored the vice president’s role as a prominent public figure in Indonesia’s predominantly Muslim society, while raising questions about the absence of his political rival, former General Prabowo Subianto, from the event.

The Eid al-Adha prayers at Istiqlal—one of the world’s largest mosques—are traditionally attended by Indonesia’s political leadership, including the president and vice president. Gibran, who has increasingly positioned himself as a unifying figure ahead of the 2024 election, delivered the khutbah (sermon) alongside religious scholars, a move that aligns with his campaign’s emphasis on national harmony. His participation contrasts with recent years, when political figures often used the occasion to deliver speeches with overtly partisan messaging.

Yet the absence of Prabowo, a three-time presidential candidate and Gibran’s most formidable challenger in the upcoming election, stood out. Prabowo, who has led the Gerindra Party and remains a dominant force in Indonesian politics, did not attend the prayers, a decision that has sparked speculation about his campaign strategy. Sources close to his team have previously indicated a focus on grassroots mobilization rather than high-profile religious events, though his absence from such a symbolic gathering is unusual for a figure of his stature.

Indonesia’s political landscape remains tense as the election approaches. Gibran, who assumed office in October 2023 following Joko Widodo’s second term, has sought to distance himself from the controversies that have dogged Prabowo’s past campaigns, including allegations of electoral irregularities and military ties. His religious observance at Istiqlal, however, reflects a broader effort to appeal to conservative Muslim voters—a demographic that has grown increasingly influential in Indonesian politics.

Meanwhile, the absence of Prabowo from the prayers does not necessarily signal a retreat from the religious dimension of his campaign. His team has emphasized economic and security platforms, framing his candidacy as a return to “strong leadership” after Widodo’s tenure. Yet the contrast between the two figures’ public appearances—Gibran’s visible participation in religious rites versus Prabowo’s selective engagement—highlights the differing strategies at play as Indonesia’s political elite navigate the final months before the vote.

The next major test for both candidates will be the official campaign period, set to begin in early June. Polls suggest a tight race, with Gibran’s approval ratings fluctuating amid economic concerns, while Prabowo’s base remains steadfast. For now, the question of whether Prabowo will adjust his public profile to counter Gibran’s religious outreach remains unanswered.