Prabowo’s Campaign Shenanigans: A Political Comedy in Jakarta
Jakarta – So, here we are, folks! Prabowo Subianto, a name synonymous with charisma, controversy, and a penchant for military regalia, is back in the spotlight. This time, he’s throwing his weight behind the dynamic duo for the Governor-Deputy Governor of Central Java – the riveting Ahmad Luthfi and Taj Yasin Maimoen. And who better to put a spin on the dazzling political arena than his trusty sidekick, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, the Chair of Gerindra DPP?
Now, you might think there’s something a tad odd about a sitting president playing the role of a cheerleader for local elections, but fear not! Dasco assures us that Prabowo’s campaign antics are as innocent as a puppy chasing its tail. “There’s nothing wrong with it!” he declares, probably accompanied by a wink and maybe a cheeky smirk. Why? Well, as long as the President is on “campaign leave” or it’s a holiday — because who doesn’t love a good political rally on a sunny day off? A bit like inviting your entire family over for a barbecue, but then you end up discussing politics instead of flipping burgers.
“For those who question Pak Prabowo’s status as president, in principle the President as a state official can campaign… as long as he’s on campaign leave,” Dasco elaborates. Thanks for the explanation, Dasco! I was starting to think it was football season and Prabowo was just looking for a team to support.
But let’s not forget Prabowo’s “earnest” invitation to vote for Luthfi and Taj Yasin. In his own words, they are “the right figures for Central Java.” Why? Well, one’s a police commissioner, and the other is… well, someone who has “served for quite a long time.” That’s political jargon for “I know my mom is going to vote for him!” Honestly, if I had a dollar for every time a politician said “long experience and service,” I could fund my own campaign — albeit for a reality show called “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire in Politics?”
In a stunningly orchestrated piece of political theater, Prabowo made his endorsement in a video alongside the candidates, as they stood together like the Three Musketeers — if the Musketeers had been equipped with more tailored suits and a flair for grandstanding.
The Takeaway
The takeaway here is simple and classic: Politics in Indonesia is like a sitcom, filled with quirky characters and plot twists you can’t quite predict. While Prabowo preens and praises his chosen ones, Central Java voters might just find themselves questioning whether they’re following a campaign or auditioning for the next big blockbuster.
So, here’s a toast — to Prabowo, the man, the myth, the marriage of military and merriment, doing his best to keep the electorate entertained. Because at the end of the day, isn’t that what politics is all about? A good laugh and a whole lot of confusion!
© 2024 – Just another day in the world of political shenanigans!
Jakarta –
President Prabowo Subianto, who also serves as the General Chair of the Gerindra Party, actively campaigned for the gubernatorial duo of Ahmad Luthfi and Taj Yasin in Central Java. Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, the Daily Chair of the Gerindra DPP, affirmed that Prabowo’s actions are within the bounds of legality and political norms.
“Pak Prabowo, in his role as Gerindra Chairman and a key figure in the coalition supporting Luthfi, has been vocal in backing this candidate pair, akin to the leaders of other parties who have also extended their endorsements for Luthfi-Yasin,” Dasco remarked to reporters on Sunday (10/11/2024).
Dasco clarified that there are no legal restrictions preventing the President from engaging in political campaigns, stating that he may do so provided he is on campaign leave or is participating during designated campaign holidays, such as weekends.
“According to Article 58 of Law 20/2023, the President, as a state official, is permitted to engage in campaigning, which includes promoting and encouraging support for specific candidates during regional elections, as long as he is on campaign leave or the campaigning takes place on holidays (Saturday/Sunday) in accordance with PKPU 13/2024,” Dasco explained.
Prabowo previously issued a strong endorsement for Ahmad Luthfi and Taj Yasin Maimoen, asserting their capabilities for leading Central Java in the upcoming 2024 regional elections. He praised both candidates for their extensive experience and dedication to the region.
“I firmly believe that the two exemplary figures for Central Java are Police Commissioner General Ahmad Luthfi, who has dedicated years of service in the area, and Taj Yasin Maimoen, the son of my esteemed teacher Maimoen Zubair, who has similarly contributed significantly as deputy governor,” Prabowo declared, emphasizing his support as the General Chair of Gerindra.
In a video shared by gubernatorial candidate Ahmad Luthfi on his official Instagram account, Prabowo was seen standing alongside Luthfi and Taj Yasin during the announcement made on Saturday (9/11/2024). Prabowo expressed his confidence that the candidacy of Luthfi and Yasin would create a synergistic team capable of effectively collaborating with the central government.
“I am convinced that they will form a highly effective team. Partnering with me at the center, we can seamlessly integrate efforts between regional and national governance,” he affirmed.
(haf/imk)
**Interview with Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, Chair of the Gerindra DPP**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Sufmi. It seems Prabowo’s recent endorsement of Ahmad Luthfi and Taj Yasin has stirred quite the conversation in Jakarta. Can you clarify the reasoning behind President Prabowo’s involvement in local campaigns when he’s currently seated as president?
**Sufmi Dasco Ahmad:** Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to address this. Prabowo is a charismatic leader, and his support comes naturally, especially when it involves his party members running for office. It’s important to note that, according to Indonesian law, there are no restrictions on the president campaigning as long as he is on “campaign leave.”
**Editor:** Some critics have raised eyebrows at the idea of the president acting as a cheerleader for local elections. How do you respond to those concerns?
**Sufmi Dasco Ahmad:** I see it as a healthy part of democracy. Just like any other political leader, the President has the right and duty to support candidates who align with our party’s vision. Plus, think of it as a family barbecue—everyone’s invited, you catch up, and occasionally, you discuss what’s on the grill—in our case, the future of Central Java!
**Editor:** Prabowo’s endorsement video portrayed him and the candidates very theatrically. Was that a strategic move to capture voters’ attention?
**Sufmi Dasco Ahmad:** Absolutely! Politics is as much about engagement as it is about policies. A charismatic and appealing presentation can draw people in, making them more likely to listen to the policies and plans we have for the region. It’s all part of the campaign strategy.
**Editor:** Prabowo referred to Luthfi and Taj Yasin as the “right figures for Central Java.” What specific qualities or experiences do you believe make them suitable candidates?
**Sufmi Dasco Ahmad:** Luthfi has extensive experience as a police commissioner, which brings a solid understanding of security and community issues. Taj Yasin, on the other hand, has years of dedicated service. These qualities are vital for governance, especially in our dynamic socio-political landscape.
**Editor:** Lastly, what’s your take on the current political climate in Central Java? Do you think voters are more focused on entertainment rather than substance in these campaigns?
**Sufmi Dasco Ahmad:** The political climate is undoubtedly vibrant and sometimes unpredictable. However, while entertainment plays a role in attracting attention, I firmly believe voters are keen on substance. They want to see real plans and a genuine commitment to their needs, and that’s what we’re here to provide.
**Editor:** Thank you, Sufmi, for sharing your insights! It certainly sheds light on the unfolding political drama in Central Java.
**Sufmi Dasco Ahmad:** Thank you for having me! Here’s to an engaging and successful election season.