The recent events in countries like Switzerland and Indonesia have underlined the significance of Hashim Djojohadikusumo, a well-known tycoon and political influencer, to his brother Prabowo Subianto, the incoming president of Indonesia. After years of legal battles to recover tax dues from Hashim and his wife in Switzerland, authorities finally auctioned off two luxury villas to recoup funds. The couple, who claimed to be divorced and insolvent, argued that they were unable to pay due to funding Prabowo’s previous campaigns and business ventures.
The importance of Hashim to his brother was further highlighted during a recent meeting in Bali with Elon Musk, where Indonesian ministers urged Musk to establish an electric vehicle factory in the country. This showcases how the development of Indonesia’s vast nickel reserves and EV supply chain will play a crucial role in Prabowo’s presidency, which begins in October. Despite uncertainties surrounding his governance, Hashim, 70, is seen as Prabowo’s most trusted advisor and may have a significant role in the new administration.
The Djojohadikusumo family has a long history of influence in Indonesian politics, with their grandfather being involved in the country’s independence movement and their father serving in the cabinets of two presidents. Following the downfall of Suharto, both Prabowo and Hashim faced challenges, with Prabowo going into exile and Hashim moving to Geneva due to financial setbacks from the Asian financial crisis. The recent legal battles in Switzerland shed light on the complex financial and political ties within the family.
Despite claims of insolvency, court records revealed that Hashim’s net worth was significant, with his business interests in mining, agriculture, and commodities grouped under his company Arsari. The couple’s divorce in 2019 was seen as an attempt to evade tax obligations, leading to a final ruling in December 2023 for the sale of their properties to cover the outstanding dues. While the villas were auctioned off for a fraction of the owed amount, the Geneva authorities have not provided comment on pursuing Hashim for the remaining funds.
Moving forward, Hashim continues to play a prominent role in Indonesian politics, being a member of Prabowo’s party’s advisory council and actively engaging in business ventures. With plans to inaugurate a tin factory and expected attendance at Prabowo’s upcoming inauguration in the new capital of Nusantara, Hashim remains a key figure in shaping the future of Indonesia under his brother’s leadership. Despite legal challenges and controversies, his influence and contributions to Indonesian politics are likely to persist.
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