Indonesia¡¯s decision to honor former dictator Suharto as a hero is a stark reminder that authoritarianism¡¯s appeal endures in Southeast Asia. Enabled in part by a younger generation that may not fully grasp the dangers of autocratic rule, this collective amnesia threatens hard-won democratic gains.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto ¡ª Suharto¡¯s former son-in-law ¡ª posthumously awarded him the title of National Hero, the country¡¯s highest civilian honor on Nov. 10. It¡¯s a recognition typically reserved for citizens who have made extraordinary contributions to the nation. Previous presidents, including Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Joko Widodo, had considered the move but ultimately declined.
This willingness to whitewash history is reflective of a broader trend across the region.
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