Gibran Rakabuming Raka's rapid political ascent from a catering entrepreneur to Indonesia's youngest vice president at 37 has sparked public debate. Initially uninterested in politics, Gibran became the Mayor of Solo in 2020 and later joined Prabowo Subianto as his vice-presidential candidate for the 2024 elections, leaving his father's party, PDIP. His popularity in Solo contributed significantly to their electoral victory. However, his rise has been marred by controversy, particularly regarding the constitutional court's decision allowing him to run despite being under 40, raising concerns about democratic integrity. The documentary 'Dirty Vote' highlights alleged electoral irregularities, while public opinion remains divided on Gibran's legitimacy and future role.

The article discusses the complexities of religious tolerance in Indonesia, highlighting incidents in Bekasi and Parepare. Despite Bekasi's high tolerance ranking, religious tensions persist, as seen in the amicable resolution of a local incident. In contrast, Parepare faced protests against a Christian school's construction, leading to a halt recommended by the regional legislative council. The article explores how miscommunication and Christianization phobia, fueled by historical narratives and media, exacerbate these tensions, emphasizing the nuanced nature of tolerance and the role of power dynamics.

Gibran made his first public appearance since the controversy over the 'Fufufafa' account, attending the Indonesian Military's 79th anniversary alongside Defense Minister Prabowo and other officials. The event, held at the National Monument in Jakarta, also saw the attendance of President Joko Widodo and First Lady Iriana. This appearance comes amid speculation about Gibran and Prabowo's relationship following allegations linked to the 'Fufufafa' account, which had posted slanderous comments about Prabowo and his family.

Gibran Rakabuming Raka, son of outgoing Indonesian President Joko Widodo, has rapidly ascended to the position of vice president-elect, sparking debates about nepotism and political dynasties. Initially a businessman, Gibran entered politics, becoming mayor of Solo and later running as vice president alongside Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto. Their ticket won decisively in the February elections, aided by a controversial court ruling lowering the age requirement for candidates. Critics argue this ruling was tailored to benefit Gibran, highlighting concerns about political fairness and the influence of familial ties. Despite mixed public opinion, Gibran's policies as mayor were well-received locally, though his political rise remains contentious.

The article delves into the experiences of Willie Merkerson, a former Green Beret turned CIA operative, focusing on his operations in Sudan during the early 1980s. It highlights a harrowing incident where Merkerson and his colleague Scott Eder narrowly escaped a mob attack in Omdurman. The narrative explores Merkerson's seamless transition into the CIA, his significant role in training Sudanese forces, and his adeptness at fostering intelligence relationships. The piece also touches on the broader geopolitical context, including the CIA's strategic interests in Sudan and Merkerson's interactions with key figures like Omar al-Bashir and Milt Bearden.

A video surfaced showing the dissolution of Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), a group affiliated with Al-Qaeda, sparking questions about its implications. The dissolution, declared by JI leaders, signifies a commitment to Indonesia's national identity and democratic governance, moving away from the goal of establishing an Islamic state. The success of the deradicalization efforts by the Indonesian National Police's Special Detachment 88 and the National Counterterrorism Agency is highlighted. The future of JI depends on the leaders' actions post-dissolution, with hopes for reduced terrorism in Indonesia and influence on other terrorist groups globally. Vigilance remains crucial as radical ideologies continue to spread through social media.

Jemaah Islamiyah, a Southeast Asian militant group linked to al-Qaeda, has been publicly dissolved, signaling a potential shift in Indonesia's counter-terrorism efforts. The decision, announced by JI leaders, has been met with skepticism, with concerns about underground activities and splinter groups. JI, responsible for major attacks like the 2002 Bali bombings, has faced significant pressure from Indonesian authorities, leading to its official ban in 2008. The dissolution is seen as a strategic move, with some experts warning of possible re-emergence in a different form. The announcement is considered a major success for Indonesia's anti-terrorism agency, though challenges remain with other groups like Jamaah Ansharut Daulah.

Jemaah Islamiyah, a Southeast Asian Islamist militant group, has announced its disbandment, raising questions about its future activities and the potential for underground operations. The decision, seen as a shift towards non-violence, has been met with skepticism, with concerns about splinter groups and the protection of assets. The Indonesian government views the disbandment as a success in combating terrorism, but experts warn of the potential for reemergence of extremist groups. The move is part of a broader trend of transformation within radical groups in Indonesia.

Jamaah Islamiyah (JI), a Southeast Asian militant group once affiliated with al-Qaeda, has publicly announced its disbandment, raising concerns about potential underground activities. The declaration, made by JI leader Abu Rusydan, emphasizes a shift towards education and mainstream Islamic teachings. Experts express skepticism about the disbandment's sincerity and warn of possible splinter groups. The Indonesian government views this as a success in counter-terrorism efforts, though concerns remain about the emergence of new threats like Jamaah Ansharut Daulah. The disbandment reflects a complex reality, with historical patterns of extremist group transformations in Indonesia.

Political disinformation has flooded Indonesian social media in the months leading up to the February 14 elections, with 526 instances of election-related hoaxes identified by the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. Activists and researchers highlight the involvement of radical groups like Jamaah Islamiyah in spreading disinformation to influence voters. The Detachment 88 Anti-Terror Special Unit has arrested several members of these groups for attempting to disrupt the political climate. Disinformation campaigns target presidential candidates with false narratives, and radical groups exploit social media to propagate their agendas. Fact-checking organizations and government bodies are actively working to counter these efforts.