Jokowi Offers More Apologies in Final State Address

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko Widodo or Jokowi offered more apologies during his final State Address at the annual People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) plenary meeting at Nusantara Building, Senayan Parliament Complex, Jakarta on August 16, 2024.

Before ending his speech, the former governor of Jakarta expressed regret for any shortcomings or unfulfilled expectations. He acknowledged the limitations of his ten-year presidency.

He said he is a human being, far from perfect, admitting his limitations and the possibility of overlooking certain issues. “I and Prof. Dr. (H.C.) K.H. Ma’ruf Amin apologize to those who may have been disappointed, to those whose hopes were not realized, and to those whose ideals were not achieved,” Jokowi remarked.

The president's speech was marked by emotional moments, including frowning, clenching his hands, and nodding his head. He acknowledged that the government's achievements have not fully met the people's aspirations but expressed optimism for Indonesia's future with unity, cooperation, and sustainability.

“Once again, we apologize. We apologize. This is the best that we can do for the Indonesian people, for the Indonesian nation and state,” he added.

This was Jokowi's final State Address, marking the conclusion of his ten-year presidency. The 2024 Annual Session focused on the theme "New Nusantara, Advanced Indonesia" and included the MPR Annual Session, the Joint Session of the DPR and DPD, and the Plenary Session of the Opening of Session Period I of the DPR for 2024-2025.

Following the MPR Annual Session and Joint Session, the event continued with the DPR Plenary Session on the 2025 State Budget.

Jokowi's apology today follows a previous apology issued on August 1, 2024, during a national dhikr event at the Merdeka Palace. He acknowledged his human limitations and expressed regret for any mistakes made during his presidency.

Several parties, including the General Chairperson of the National Gotong Royong Party, Faizal Assegaf, have criticized the apology, perceiving it as Jokowi’s last attempt to mitigate public disappointment.

SAVERO ARISTIA WIENANTO

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