Roy Adriansyah, Jakarta – Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno visited President-elect Prabowo Subianto's private residence during Eid al-Fitr celebrations on Wednesday, extending a gesture of reconciliation after their divergent paths in the Feb. 14 elections.

Sandiaga, who served as Prabowo's running mate in the 2019 presidential election, chose to join a coalition supporting rival candidate Ganjar Pranowo in the latest presidential polls.

The decision followed Sandiaga's departure from Prabowo's Great Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra), as he shifted allegiance to the United Development Party (PPP) ahead of the presidential and legislative elections.

Accompanied by his wife Nur Asia, Sandiaga arrived at Prabowo's residence on Kertanegara Street in South Jakarta at around 8:30 p.m., just before the conclusion of the private festive Eid celebrations, which mark the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.

When approached by reporters after the meeting, Sandiaga briefly said, "I'm here for Eid celebrations only."

Visiting friends and relatives to seek forgiveness for past mistakes and shortcomings during Eid al-Fitr is a cherished national tradition among Indonesian Muslims.

Minutes later, Prabowo emerged from his residence to greet residents and journalists gathered outside the gate. However, he declined to provide details about his meeting with Sandiaga.

"Thank you all, my friends. Eid Mubarak," Prabowo said before concluding his interactions.

Throughout the day, Prabowo received numerous prominent guests, including his running mate Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Gerindra executives, and senior government officials.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/sandiaga-visits-prabowo-in-gesture-of-reconciliatio