Presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto casts his ballot in Bogor, Indonesia, February 14, 2024. (Photo: AFP/VNA)

Quick ballot counts by independent pollsters showed the 72-year-old defence minister won nearly 60% of votes, surpassing pre-election projections of a slim majority. Such counts have proven accurate in past votes.

The veteran politician had an insurmountable lead over rivals, who trailed at least 33 points behind.

The national election agency is expected to announce official results by March 20. If confirmed, the new president will take office in October.