Ichsan Ali, Jakarta – President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo extends congratulations to Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, the leading candidate for Indonesia's next president, according to quick count results in the 2024 Presidential Election. Jokowi also confirms his meeting with Gibran Rakabuming Raka, his son and Prabowo's running mate, on Wednesday evening.
"Yes, I've congratulated (Prabowo) and I've met (with Gibran) directly. Last night," he said after attending the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) 2024 at JiExpo Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, on Thursday.
However, Jokowi refrains from disclosing the names of other individuals he met besides Gibran.
"Four (people). Well, I don't need to mention them," said Jokowi.
Furthermore, Jokowi emphasizes the need to await the official results from the General Election Commission (KPU).
"The quick count results are a scientific counting method. However, we must wait for the official results from the KPU," he said.
Regarding his meeting facilitated by the Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X (Sultan HB X), with the Chairperson of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), Megawati Soekarnoputri, Jokowi states that such meetings are crucial for fostering positive relationships with national figures.
"Any form of interaction with all national figures is very positive. It is excellent for our nation," Jokowi told reporters at JiExpo Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, on Thursday.
Previously, Governor Sri Sultan HB X admitted to being a mediator in the meeting between Jokowi and PDIP Chair Megawati Soekarnoputri.
The relationship between Jokowi and the 5th President of Indonesia, Megawati, reportedly experienced strains, especially after both had different directions of support in the 2024 Presidential Election. PDIP is known to support presidential and vice-presidential candidates Ganjar Pranowo and Mahfud MD.
Jokowi has never officially declared his support in the 2024 Presidential Election, even though his eldest son, Gibran, is running as the vice-presidential candidate alongside Prabowo Subianto.