Yusnitus Paat, Jakarta – The General Election Commission (KPU) concluded its assessment of the inaugural presidential debate and announced on Thursday that the format will remain unchanged for the subsequent four debates.

The upcoming debate will feature three vice-presidential candidates, continuing the structure established in the first debate earlier this week, where presidential nominees Anies Baswedan, Prabowo Subianto, and Ganjar Pranowo had opportunities to present their ideas in accordance with the debate's theme.

Debate participants must respond to questions from panelists before engaging in exchanges with each other.

"Despite ongoing evaluations, the debate format will remain consistent," said KPU Commissioner August Mellaz following an evaluation meeting with representatives of the three contenders.

Representatives from the campaign teams highlighted issues of low compliance with debate regulations among the audience during the evaluation meeting.

The first debate took place in the front yard of the KPU headquarters on Imam Bonjol Street, Central Jakarta, in a makeshift outdoor setting that had limited audience capacity. These conditions affected camera angles and lighting, impeding broadcasters from capturing significant moments during the debate.

"We anticipate resolving these issues in the upcoming debates, which will be held indoors at hotel premises in Jakarta," August said.

The second event, scheduled for December 22, will focus on economic issues encompassing finance, digital economy, taxation, state budget management, infrastructure development, and urban development. It will feature the three running mates: Muhaimin Iskandar, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and Mohammad Mahfud MD.

Gibran, 36, is expected to draw nationwide attention as he carries the mandate to uphold the legacy of his father, President Joko Widodo.

BTV network, an affiliate of B-Universe Media Holdings, is set to be one of the official broadcasters for the upcoming debate.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/kpu-maintains-debate-format-ahead-of-vp-candidates-showdow