Suharto Becomes Acting President of Indonesia

March 12th, 1967

March 12th, 1967

Suharto Becomes Acting President of Indonesia
How Long Ago?

58 years, 1 month, 17 days ago

Location

Jakarta, Indonesia

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Sukarno
  • Suharto
Links & References
Tags

Suharto Becomes Acting President of Indonesia

After intense political turmoil, Suharto was inaugurated as Acting President of Indonesia by the People’s Consultative Assembly. This marked a significant shift in power from Sukarno, who had been sidelined following a failed coup attempt that led to widespread violence. Suharto's rise to leadership was encouraged by military backing and a desire for stability amidst national chaos.

Suharto was a general in the Indonesian army.

Sukarno had led Indonesia since its independence.

The coup attempt led to mass killings by the military.

Suharto's rule lasted until 1998.

What Happened?

In the midst of political turbulence in Indonesia, General Suharto was inaugurated as Acting President by the People’s Consultative Assembly, effectively removing President Sukarno from power. The context for this power shift stemmed from an attempted coup in September 1965, which resulted in a massacre of suspected communists and marked the decline of Sukarno's authority. The Indonesian military, under Suharto's command, consolidated power and began a campaign to restore order in the nation, promising to protect Indonesia from communism. The backing of key political factions and the military's role were pivotal in facilitating this transition.

Why Does it Matter?

Suharto’s assumption of the presidency marks a significant moment in Indonesia's political landscape, setting the stage for an authoritarian regime that would last for over three decades. His rule was characterized by political repression and a shift towards developmental policies. This period fundamentally changed Indonesia’s governance and societal structure, leading to substantial economic growth but also significant human rights abuses, making it a complex chapter in the country’s history.

Discover More Historic Events from March 12th

Health & Medicine

US Suspends Travel from Europe Amid COVID-19 Crisis

March 12th, 2020 5 years ago

In March 2020, President Donald Trump announced the suspension of travel from 26 European countries to the United States for a period of 30 days. This decision, aimed at curbing the rapid spread of COVID-19, took effect on March 13, 2020. It applied to countries within the Schengen Area, which includes most of Western Europe. The announcement raised significant concerns and led to widespread reactions across the globe, impacting thousands of travelers and escalating measures to contain the virus in the U.S. The focus was on protecting public health and managing the emerging pandemic.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

UK Parliament Rejects Revised EU Withdrawal Bill

March 12th, 2019 6 years ago

The House of Commons voted on a revised EU Withdrawal Bill that aimed to finalize the terms of the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union. A total of 149 Members of Parliament (MPs) voted against the bill, reflecting deep divisions within the government and Parliament over Brexit. This rejection came amidst ongoing debates concerning trade agreements, citizens' rights, and the impact on the Northern Ireland border. The outcome underscored the political challenges facing Prime Minister Boris Johnson's administration.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

US-Bangla Airlines Flight 211 Fatal Crash

March 12th, 2018 7 years ago

US-Bangla Airlines Flight 211 crashed while landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal. The aircraft, a Bombardier Dash 8 Q400, was approaching the airport when it lost control, resulting in a significant accident that killed 51 people and injured 20 others. The crash highlights challenges in aviation safety in the region and raised questions over air traffic management and pilot training.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Gas Explosion in East Harlem Kills Eight

March 12th, 2014 11 years ago

A gas explosion occurred in East Harlem, New York City, causing the destruction of two residential buildings and resulting in the tragic deaths of eight individuals. The explosion injured approximately 70 others and was attributed to a gas leak. The impact led to extensive emergency response efforts and highlighted ongoing concerns regarding infrastructure safety and maintenance.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Explosion

March 12th, 2011 14 years ago

A reactor explosion at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant occurred following the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, leading to significant radioactivity release. The event unfolded amid a series of reactor failures, prompting urgent evacuation orders and extensive emergency responses from authorities and international organizations.

Continue Reading
Economics & Industry

Bernie Madoff Pleads Guilty to Fraud Charges

March 12th, 2009 16 years ago

Bernard Madoff, an influential financier, pleaded guilty in New York to charges of conducting one of the largest frauds in Wall Street's history. Facing 11 charges, including securities fraud and investment advisor fraud, Madoff admitted to running a Ponzi scheme that defrauded thousands of investors of billions of dollars. The scheme, which began in the 1960s, unraveled dramatically, leading to significant scrutiny of financial regulations and Wall Street practices. His admission sent shockwaves across the financial world, raising questions about oversight.

Continue Reading