PDIP Unfazed by Kaesang's Plan to Run in Puan's Central Java District
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- PDI Perjuangan party official Ganjar Pranowo stated the party is unconcerned about Kaesang Pangarep's announcement to run for a legislative seat in Central Java.
- Ganjar emphasized that all citizens have the right to participate in government and that the party trusts voters to choose based on track record and connection to the people.
- He expressed confidence that PDIP's support base in Central Java, referred to as 'kandang banteng' (bull pen), will remain strong.
Ganjar Pranowo, a key official from the PDI Perjuangan party, has dismissed concerns regarding Kaesang Pangarep's recent announcement to contest a legislative seat in Central Java's District V in the 2029 elections. Pangarep, who leads the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), declared his intention to run from a district that includes Solo, Boyolali, Klaten, and Sukoharjo.
Every citizen has the right to equal opportunity in government. That is guaranteed by the 1945 Constitution. Whoever it is.
"Every citizen has the right to equal opportunity in government. That is guaranteed by the 1945 Constitution. Whoever it is," Pranowo stated in a written release. He added that it is natural for Pangarep to run in District V, given his origins in Solo, Central Java. Pranowo stressed that the most important aspect moving forward is ensuring the public can exercise their voting rights freely and without pressure.
For PDI Perjuangan, this is not about who is running against whom, but rather how the people are given the opportunity to determine their choices freely and democratically.
Pranowo expressed confidence that PDI Perjuangan's electoral performance in the region, often referred to as 'kandang banteng' (bull pen), will not be diminished by Pangarep's candidacy. He believes voters will prioritize candidates' track records and their connection with the populace. "We respect every election participant, and remain confident that closeness to the people, track record, and real work will be the primary considerations for the public when granting their mandate," he explained.
We respect every election participant, and remain confident that closeness to the people, track record, and real work will be the primary considerations for the public when granting their mandate.
Pangarep's decision to run from District V is notable as it is the electoral territory of Puan Maharani, the Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives and a prominent figure within PDI Perjuangan. In the previous election, Maharani secured a significant number of votes from this district. Pangarep himself stated he would run from this specific district, which encompasses Solo city.
No (votes will be lost), our parties are different. I still believe (Central Java) is the bull pen.
Originally published by CNN Indonesia in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.