LONG before Indonesia gained independence, the nation’s founders had already warned against dynastic politics. On July 10, 1945, members of the Investigative Committee for Preparatory Work for Independence (BPUPKI) debated what form of government the country should adopt after the end of colonial rule. Three factions emerged: a republic, a monarchy, and a presidium.

The leading proponent of a republic was Muhammad Yamin. Among all members,