Indonesians Vote to Replace President Jokowi, Candidates Call for Clean Election
Indonesians flocked to polling stations across the country on Wednesday to cast their ballots in an election that will determine the successor to President Joko Widodo. With over 259,000 candidates vying for 20,600 positions, this election marks the world’s biggest single-day election.
The main focus of the election is on the presidency and the future of President Jokowi’s ambitious plans to bolster Indonesia’s position as an electric vehicle hub and carry out extensive infrastructure projects, including relocating the capital city.
The race to replace Jokowi features two former governors, Ganjar Pranowo and Anies Baswedan, alongside controversial frontrunner Prabowo Subianto, a former special forces commander known for his close ties to Indonesia’s late authoritarian ruler, Suharto. Recent surveys show Prabowo leading with over 50% of the votes, avoiding the need for a second round.
One crucial factor in this election will be the undecided voters, who could play a significant role in propelling Anies or Ganjar into a runoff. Both candidates stressed the importance of a fair and peaceful election. It’s worth noting that after the 2019 election, deadly riots erupted when Prabowo contested Jokowi’s victory.
Voting in the western areas of Indonesia is set to close at 0600 GMT. Initial results based on publicly counted votes from a selected number of polling stations are expected to provide an indication of the overall outcome later today. In previous elections, unofficial vote counts have proven to be accurate.
The outcome of this election will determine the future of Jokowi’s policies, which have focused on attracting investment, streamlining business regulations, and improving living standards for millions of Indonesians. Prabowo, who has rebranded his image to appeal to younger voters, has promised to continue Jokowi’s policies.
While Jokowi has publicly supported Prabowo, some critics have accused him of interfering in a court ruling to allow his son to run as Prabowo’s vice president. Nevertheless, Jokowi’s loyalists reject these allegations, and it remains to be seen if they will impact Prabowo’s chances.
As the results unfold, Indonesia’s political landscape hangs in the balance, with the fate of the world’s third-largest democracy on the line. The nation eagerly awaits the outcome of this historic election.
