Heru Andriyanto, Jakarta – President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo reiterated on Wednesday that he will abstain from participating in campaign rallies, despite his son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, contesting the election as a vice-presidential candidate.

"I reiterate that all civil servants, military personnel, the National Police, and the State Intelligence Agency must maintain neutrality in the election and uphold people's sovereignty," the president said during a visit to North Sumatra.

A video clip of his statement was shared on his social media platforms.

"I did say previously that the president is permitted to engage in campaign rallies and provided the legal basis for my statement," Jokowi responded to journalists' inquiries, "However if you ask whether I will take part in the presidential campaign, the answer is no."

Jokowi also urged voters to exercise their rights in the Feb. 14 elections, where Indonesians will elect the president, vice president, and legislative members at all levels.

"The KPU [General Election Commission], the Bawaslu [Election Oversight Body], and their staff members must conduct their duties professionally and with integrity to ensure the transparent articulation of every vote," Jokowi said.

The two-term president will end his tenure in October and he cannot seek reelection due to the constitutional term limit.

His son is the running mate of presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto, who currently serves as the defense minister in the Jokowi cabinet.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/jokowi-confirms-he-wont-engage-in-presidential-campaig