Budi Arie Clarifies Regarding Viral Video on Election Acceleration

Budi Arie Setiadi, the chairman of Projo, a volunteer organization supporting Indonesian President Joko Widodo, has issued an apology following the virality of a video in which he discussed the possibility of accelerating the general election. In a statement accompanying a video released Wednesday, Setiadi expressed regret to those who were offended or uncomfortable with his analysis. He emphasized that his statements were his own personal views and did not reflect any connection to President Widodo, despite the President's presence at the event where the remarks were made. Setiadi reiterated that his analysis and statements were his personal responsibility and had no link to Joko Widodo. He also declared his willingness to accept full responsibility and any consequences arising from his comments. The video in question, which circulated widely on social media, showed Setiadi speaking at a forum. He was seen sitting next to President Widodo and was heard speculating about the possibility of the election occurring sooner than the scheduled 2029. Setiadi questioned whether the nation would be prepared if such an acceleration were to happen, posing the rhetorical question, "What if acceleration happens? Are we ready?"

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I, Budi Arie Setiadi, apologize to the parties who were displeased and uncomfortable with my statement.