Jokowi Eyes 62 Percent Votes; Observer: Not Excessive

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Public Institute executive director Karyono Wibowo said that the target set by the presidential hopeful number 01 Joko “Jokowi” Widodo who is eyeing to gain 58-62 percent votes is still realistic.

“As we see from surveys, the target of 58-60 percent is not excessive. The electability of Pak Jokowi is around 52-58 percent,” said Karyono when met in Jakarta, on Monday, March 25.

Karyono explained Jokowi and his team should carry out optimal performance to reach the target, by approaching the public and applying proper strategies such as explaining the achievement of Jokowi’s fundamental work.

“Besides, the team must verify hoax news against Pak Jokowi,” he said, mentioning issues of SARA (racism) and communism.

Read also: Jokowi, Prabowo Camps Agree on Metro TV Airing Election Debate

According to Karyono, strategies to win the election must be applied with persuasive, educative, and based on data to ensure the public. For example, the campaign team and volunteers must be able to explain the reasons for the country owing, and the reasons why the amount goes up or down.

"Jokowi has many programs, but explain the fundamental ones," he said.

Programs that are considered fundamental, Karyono opined, are land certificates distribution, poverty reduction programs, and village funds.

During a campaign at Maulana Yusuf Stadium, Ciceri, Serang, Banten, on Sunday, Jokowi was optimistic to obtain 58-62 percent votes in the 2019 presidential election within three weeks ahead of the election on April 17.

FRISKI RIANA