TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has apologized to several parties, whose aspirations were not accommodated during the selection for the Indonesia Onward Cabinet lineup.

"Those disappointed reach more than 266 million. This means their number is higher than those, who are pleased. Perhaps, some of those present are also disappointed. Hence, I do apologize for being unable to accommodate all of them because, once again, only 34 posts are available," he remarked while opening the 10th Congress of the Pancasila Youths at Sultan Hotel in Jakarta on Saturday.

Jokowi confirmed having received some 300 ministerial candidates before he announced the cabinet lineup on Wednesday (Oct 23, 2019).

The head of state spoke of the challenges he encountered in forming the cabinet lineup since he had to adjust to various backgrounds.

"We must look at issues concerning regions, ethnic groups, and religions. The proportion must be really accurate when it comes to political parties and professionals. It is not easy to form a cabinet lineup that must be diverse since Indonesia epitomizes unity in diversity," he stated.

Regardless of whether someone is elected as minister is normal in democracy, he noted while drawing attention to the 1945 Constitution wherein it is the president’s prerogative to choose ministers.

"However, I believe Indonesia has a noble culture. Indonesia has Pancasila that unites all differences in opinion. Differences in choice is also normal. However, for us, unity and togetherness are a must," Jokowi emphasized.

ANTARA