TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko Widodo or Jokowi virtually attended the 49^th anniversary celebration of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) on Monday, January 10, 2022. In his opening speech, the President lauded PDIP as the largest political party in the country.

“Thank God, as it reached the age of 49, the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle has successfully become the biggest political party in Indonesia. Merdeka! [freedom],” said Jokowi.

Jokowi also said PDIP as a political party had consistently stood up for the nation’s poor people as well as its sovereignty and interests. The President also commended the party for its continued involvement in formulating national policies.

“On this occasion, on behalf of society, the people and the country, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to PDIP for its support in preparing policies and facing the difficult times caused by the COVID-19,” Jokowi said.

According to Jokowi, Indonesia has successfully dealt with the health challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. He said this was evident as confirmed cases had plummeted by 99 percent compared to the figures recorded at the peak of the pandemic in July 2021, which hit 56 thousand cases daily.

He explained further that vaccinations in the nation had been progressing speedily, placing Indonesia as the fifth country on the global list with the highest vaccination rates. To date, some 288 million vaccine doses have been administered to the public.

“However, we must keep our eyes peeled for the possibilities of further pandemic risks due to the emergence of the Omicron variant just as Ibu Mega [Megawati Soekarnoputri] said.”

At the end of his speech, Jokowi, who was nominated twice by PDIP to run for president in 2014 and 2019, wished the party a happy anniversary.

“Lastly, I would like to wish PDIP a happy 49^th anniversary. May you grow to be stronger more glorious,” Jokowi said.

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EGI ADYATAMA