From ‘New Hope’ to ‘Mulyono’: how power grabs threaten Widodo’s legacy in Indonesia

When Joko Widodo was first elected a decade ago, he was hailed as a “New Hope” while gracing the cover of Time magazine, reflecting the widespread belief that he would root out government corruption and curb elite dominance as Indonesia’s president.

Now, nearing the end of his second and final term, many Indonesians have taken to referring to him by his birth name – Mulyono – to “humiliate him”, said Ian Wilson, a political sociologist at Murdoch University’s Indo-Pacific Research Centre in Perth.

Despite enjoying strong support and high approval ratings throughout his presidency, recent events – including perceived attempts by allied lawmakers to undermine democracy – have sparked protests and widespread outrage that may tarnish his legacy.

This disaffection is particularly evident online, where the name “Mulyono” is frequently used.

A demonstrator holds a cut-out of Widodo during a protest last month outside parliament against revisions to Indonesia’s election law. Photo: Reuters

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