Projo Clarifies Viral Video on Potential Acceleration of Indonesia's 2029 Election

Projo Secretary-General Fredy Alex Damanik has clarified the context of a viral video featuring chairman Budi Arie Setiadi, which circulated widely on social media. The video snippet included Setiadi speculating about the possibility of the 2029 general election being accelerated and even whispering to President Joko Widodo about it.

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First, the video is not a complete video, but actually explains various possibilities.

Damanik explained that the video was not a complete recording but an excerpt from an internal discussion. This discussion occurred during a gathering of President Widodo's supporters in commemoration of Indonesia's Independence Month. The forum served as a platform for volunteers to share their views on the current national situation, mapping out problems and potential solutions.

According to Damanik, the input was shared with President Widodo with the hope that he would relay it to the current President Prabowo Subianto, given their close relationship. The volunteers believe this communication channel could contribute to national improvements. Damanik added that President Widodo listened to the volunteers' concerns and advised everyone to remain calm, assuring them that the economy is stable and growing.

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I just whispered to Mr. Jokowi, 'Sir, my instinct is that it's faster than 2029?' Do we want that? Not necessarily.

Setiadi's remarks in the video suggested that political dynamics might shift rapidly, potentially before 2029. He questioned readiness for such an acceleration and drew parallels to the activist movements of 1997-1998, which were fueled by public unrest, while also referencing recent demonstrations. The clarification emphasizes that Setiadi's comments were part of a broader discussion on various national scenarios.

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The situation is fine, the economy is still growing well, inflation is under control, so there is nothing to worry about.