Chandra Adi Nurwidya, Yogyakarta – Ganjar Pranowo, the former presidential candidate of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), has commented on the potential candidacy of Anies Baswedan in his party's deliberations for the Jakarta Gubernatorial Election.
The former Governor of Central Java said that Anies Baswedan's participation in the Jakarta gubernatorial race requires further discussion.
"We need to discuss this matter thoroughly and hopefully reach a consensus. However, if we cannot find common ground, we should not force the issue," Ganjar said in Yogyakarta on Monday.
Nevertheless, Ganjar underscored PDI-P's openness to considering both internal party members and external politicians who demonstrate potential for advancement.
"I believe we are open-minded. If we have strong internal candidates, that's excellent. Otherwise, we are willing to support or nominate candidates from outside the party. Our decisions will be guided by democratic values, ideology, and the assurance that supported politicians align with our principles," he elaborated.
When asked about his own intentions for the 2024 Regional Elections, Ganjar acknowledged his two-term tenure as Governor of Central Java.
"I have already served two terms as governor. Why would I seek another regional election? I am mindful of my position and aware of my limitations," Ganjar concluded.
Anies, who served as Jakarta governor from 2017 to 2022, contested the presidential election on February 14 but was defeated by Gerindra's Prabowo Subianto.
Anies is expected to compete with Ridwan Kamil, the former West Java Governor, in the upcoming regional election in November.
Ridwan Kamil, a member of the Golkar party, is currently being considered by his party and the Gerindra Party for nomination either in the Jakarta or West Java gubernatorial election.
Anies, unaffiliated with any party, ran alongside Muhaimin Iskandar in the recent presidential election. Muhaimin, chairman of PKB, is rumored to be endorsing Anies for the Jakarta election.