M Julnis Firmansyah, Jakarta – President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo did not deny rumors stating that he had given his blessing to two renowned politicians, Ganjar Pranowo and Prabowo Subianto, to run for the 2024 presidential election.

"If somebody tells me that [Ganjar and Prabowo] are running for the presidency, I wouldn't say no, would I? So, go ahead, our democracy should be conveyed as such," said Jokowi on Friday, August 12, 2022.

However, this does not directly mean the President's blessing had been given. "I wouldn't block a state minister who conveyed their intention to me. If that is perceived as a blessing then so be it," Jokowi added.

Signals were evident in a number of events where both Jokowi and Prabowo were present such as the latest National Armed Forces (TNI) gathering where Prabowo, a former strong opposition figure, applauded the President's leadership and that he does not regret joining the current Cabinet.

Meanwhile, Ganjar Pranowo was present in the same event as Jokowi during the Jokowi volunteer meeting held in Central Java in May this year. The President signaled support for Pranowo in the meeting.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/1622209/jokowi-hints-support-for-prabowo-ganjar-pranowo-in-2024-electio