TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko Widodo or Jokowi claimed that the 2024 general elections are a calmer affair compared to its two previous editions. He believed that Indonesian citizens were getting smarter in terms of political engagement.

Jokowi relayed this statement during his opening remark at Indonesia's 2024 Economic Outlook in Kuningan, South Jakarta today. "The current political situation is fairly peaceful. I think it's world's away compared to [political situation] in 2014 and 2019," he said.

The general elections, including the presidential election and legislative elections, will be held on the 14th of February in 2024, while regional elections are scheduled for November 2024.

During the 2014 and 2019 general elections, Jokowi faced Prabowo Subianto. At the time, political tension was on the rise following a polarized Indonesian society.

In his Friday speech, Jokowi said that Indonesian citizens are politically mature. Business actors have no reason to be nervous ahead of the general elections, he went on.

"I emphasize that there is nothing to worry about. If you're active on social media, watch TV, and the debate between politicians, you'd, of course, think there is rising tension. But the people in the regions and villagers actually remain cool," he said.

The 2024 general elections will face Anies Baswedan - Muhaimin Iskandar, Prabowo Subianto - Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and Ganjar Pranowo - Mahfud Md.

DANIEL A. FAJRI

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