The tale of “Gibran Baratheon”

Remember Joffrey Baratheon? The spoiled brat from King’s Landing who, despite lacking in age, experience, and perhaps common sense, happened to hold the reins of power.

Does it sound familiar?

Not only did Game of Thrones center around dynasties, but the current political landscape in Indonesia also exhibits a parallel character, seen in Jokowi’s eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka.

Those surrounding Joffrey justified his seemingly ‘natural’ trajectory to power; he craved affirmation as a great leader. He existed within a bubble of self-delusion, convinced of his own capability.

Joffrey, oddly enough, always got what he wanted. All he had to do was ask the people around him, who sort of brushed over his lack of leadership skills.

All Joffrey needed was his Dad’s surname and a Mother who craves for power

Joffrey’s mom, Cersei Lannister, is the one pulling the strings for his power trip. Cersei figured that with Joffrey on the throne, she could easily call the shots. She did all the scheming, so Joffrey could just waltz in and play king once her plans were set.

Does it ring a bell?

Joffrey comes across as someone with a limited education, and his mindset appears immature. He can’t handle a joke, going so far as to command his men to mutilate someone who delivered a humorous performance.

He made an effort to appear cool and unfazed, but deep down, he was incredibly fragile. He adopts the attitude of a true king, yet it’s merely a facade shaped by the bubble created by those around him.

He knew, on a fundamental level, that he lacked the capability to truly rule from the throne.

Does it remind you this scene during the first debate?

The people surrounding Joffrey aren’t fools; they understand the need to tread carefully around him, particularly to avoid harming his fragile and insecure ego.

You know what’s more perilous than a malevolent leader? A leader who has no clue what they’re doing but pretends to be in control.

Out of all six figures in the Indonesian presidential candidacy, I don’t have issues with the others, except for him. It’s not just about the questionable path he took to power, involving nepotism, but also his apparent lack of competence is a significant concern. It’s almost disheartening to witness how he presents himself as a representative of Indonesian youth. No, thanks!

Sometimes I imagine my debate opponents from UI and UGM back in 2014. I envision that one of them might be a President’s son or daughter who followed a path involving nepotism. Strangely, I wouldn’t be so concerned because I believe they have the potential to lead well based on their background and how they presented themselves.

I despise the image of a leader who appears weak and incapable.

I miss the image of SBY leading the country — a strong, wise individual we could rely on. The past 10 years should have been sufficient for Indonesia to place capable individuals in the forefront.

“Give him a chance; there are still debates to be had,” you may say, only to witness him being dissected by Mahfud and Imin?

Call me a pessimist, but given Prabowo’s self-betrayal and this individual being his second-in-command, I wouldn’t feel secure with him leading my nation.

I hope my nation can steer clear of such incapable leaders. However, considering his popularity despite a lack of knowledge, I wish that whoever emerges victorious, our nation will thrive.