Widy Wicaksono, Semarang – Central Java gubernatorial candidate Ahmad Luthfi claimed on Wednesday that he has the backing of President Prabowo Subianto and former President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo.
Luthfi, who is running alongside former Vice Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen, said during the debate that he represents the current administration's initiatives in the province and that his platform aligns with the Golden Indonesia Vision 2045 set forth by the previous administration.
"I have served in Central Java for many years, as has Taj Yasin. This province is our home, and we are fully committed to achieving the Golden Indonesia aspiration by 2045," said Luthfi, a former Central Java Police Chief.
"We will work for the people, inspired by the example set by Mr. Jokowi. We aim to address the issues facing our communities and uphold the directives that Mr. Prabowo has given to both me and Taj Yasin," he added.
His opponent, former Armed Forces Commander General (ret.) Andika Perkasa, pledged to reform the bureaucracy and enhance government accountability if elected.
"Tonight, I'm prepared to discuss reforms in bureaucracy and leadership that will promote accountability and transparency. If given the people's trust, we'll remain open to criticism and guidance for a better future," said Andika, who is running with Hendrar Prihadi as his vice-gubernatorial candidate.
Both candidates also promised to advance digital transformation across Central Java. Luthfi committed to expanding internet access to 107 villages across the province, while Andika proposed a satellite service to provide connectivity in even the most remote areas of Central Java.
Andika is backed by the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), which is eager to win gubernatorial elections in Central Java, Jakarta, East Java, and North Sumatra after the party's loss in the presidential election in February.
Notably, PDI-P stands as the only major party outside the pro-government coalition since Prabowo's inauguration as president on October 20.