TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The City Hall is turning into a garden of flowers sent to outgoing Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, also known as Ahok, and his deputy Djarot Saiful Hidayat. Quick count results show that the incumbent ticket lost the gubernatorial election held on April 19.

The City Hall security officer Manin said that the hall has been receiving flowers since Saturday last week. “They keep coming even today,” he said yesterday, April 25.

The flowers sent by individuals bear various messages. An anonymous message of encouragement written on a floral arrangement says, “Thanks, Pak Ahok and Pak Djarot, we love you. Don’t slow down, stay strong!”

Another anonymous message says, “Thank you Pak Ahok for your hard work. You are a real leader. We love you and we will miss you. [P.S.] From us who have not moved on.”

A rather motivational one from senders named Mercy, Vivi and Uwin says, “[We hope] Pak Ahok and Pak Djarot have a successful career. Don’t be discouraged.”

A social gathering group sent the remark that says, “Thank you, Bapak Ahok and Bapak Djarot. You’re invaluable to the city of Jakarta.”

A floral arrangement being put near a fountain expresses an appreciation message for the services and performance of the incumbent officials. The postscript says, “From us whose hearts are broken after parting ways when we are in deeply love.”

LARISSA HUDA