RADAR BLITAR – Ahmad Bahar, author of Gibran The Next President, has returned to the national spotlight with a controversial new book on Indonesia’s police leadership. The writer from Gedog, Sananwetan district, Blitar, says the power of words can be “more dangerous than firearms.”

Bahar first gained attention for political predictions many dismissed as speculation. Some critics even labeled him a fortune teller. However, several of his early narratives later matched real political developments.

One of his most discussed works, Gibran The Next President, appeared long before Gibran Rakabuming Raka entered the presidential race. Bahar wrote it when Gibran, the eldest son of former president Joko Widodo, was still preparing his run for mayor of Solo.

Bahar says his method combines research, political observation, and instinct. He had earlier written about a Jokowi–Jusuf Kalla pairing in 2013, when many doubted the ticket. The pair later won the presidency.

“Writing requires emotion and conviction. We do not write for ourselves, but for society,” Bahar said.

His writing career began in his third semester at Universitas Gadjah Mada. After marrying young, he sought financial independence by submitting articles to national media. He recalled earning more from ten published pieces than a school principal’s monthly salary at the time.

Now Ahmad Bahar has released a new book, Rapor Merah Sang Jenderal (“The General’s Red Report Card”), published on February 5. The book examines the leadership of National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo and ongoing reform in the Indonesian National Police.

Several of Bahar’s earlier works faced restrictions or temporary bans due to their critical tone. Despite pressure and anonymous late-night calls, he says he remains steadfast.

For many in Blitar, Ahmad Bahar shows how writing can challenge authority and shape national debate. From a university student who once wrote letters to officials, he has become a political author with a nationwide voice.