Suharto

American  

[soo-hahr-toh] / suˈhɑr toʊ /

Or Soeharto

noun

1. 1921–2008, Indonesian army officer and political leader: president 1967–98.

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Suharto British  

/ sʊˈhɑːtəʊ /

noun

1. T. N. J. 1921–2008, Indonesian general and statesman; president (1968–98)

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Suharto Cultural  

1. A soldier and statesman in Indonesia in the twentieth century. An abortive coup by communists in 1965 led to the gradual devolution of power from Sukarno to the army, with Suharto assuming power in 1967. He became president in 1968 upon Sukarno's resignation and held that post until forced from office in 1998 by mass protests against corruption and nepotism in his government.

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Example Sentences

In a decree read by the presidential military secretary, Suharto was named among the 10 people to be added to the country's catalogue of national heroes.

From Barron's • Nov. 10, 2025

Former president Suharto, who died in 2008 aged 86, ruled Indonesia with an iron fist for more than three decades after grabbing power in 1967 following a failed military coup.

From Barron's • Nov. 4, 2025

In early 1997, Indonesia's then-president, Suharto, ruled that a small company such as Bre-X Minerals could no longer solely own the site and reap its rewards.

From BBC • May 18, 2024

Suharto dismissed the allegations even after leaving office in 1998.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 14, 2024

He was barred from entering the U.S. for two decades because of his human rights record, and he has been associated with the country’s former dictator, Suharto.

From New York Times • Feb. 14, 2024