Jusuf Kalla on Chances of Ahok Campaign for Jokowi
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12 February 2019 20:31 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Jokowi – Ma’ruf Amin campaign team (TKN) advisor Jusuf Kalla viewed that there is no urgency to include Basuki “BTP” Tjahaja Purnama or Ahok as an official member of the TKN after the latter's enlistment as PDIP cadre post his prison release.
“As a member of the advisory board, [Ahok should not join the TKN],” said Jusuf Kalla at the VP office on Tuesday, February 12.
Although he acknowledged that BTP joining the team would certainly attract votes from the former governor’s followers, Jusuf Kalla also highlighted another demographic among Indonesians that would despise BTP for his status as an ex-convict.
“People would think that Jokowi is backed by a former suspect of blasphemy. That could drop votes [for Jokowi],” said the VP who opined that it would be better for Ahok to take time for himself and enjoy his freedom by going on a vacation.
EGI ADYATAMA | FIKRI ARIGI
