There is growing discontent within the Indonesian government regarding President Joko Widodo’s alleged interference in the upcoming elections, according to two sources familiar with the matter.
Additionally, a third government source and longtime loyalist to President Widodo also expressed disappointment in what they perceived as an attempt by the president to maintain power through his son’s candidacy for vice president.
According to the constitution, President Widodo is required to step down next year as he has served the maximum two terms.
However, there are accusations within his inner circle of attempting to use nepotism and judicial interference to retain power after a constitutional court ruling created a loophole allowing his son to run for vice president.
This ruling, issued by a court headed by Jokowi’s brother-in-law, led to his son being named as the vice presidential running mate of Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto.
These developments have sparked widespread criticism in Indonesia, with many accusing Jokowi of attempting to establish a political dynasty.
Reuters spoke to five individuals familiar with the administration, four of whom requested anonymity, who reported discomfort within Jokowi’s inner circle and political party following the court decision. The presidential palace did not respond to requests for comments.
Several figures who have worked closely with Jokowi for a decade have expressed feelings of betrayal and disappointment. One such individual, Andi Widjajanto, resigned from his post to join the campaign of a candidate running against Prabowo and the president’s son.
“As someone that worked with Jokowi for a long time I am very, very disappointed in him,” Andi said.
Two sources familiar with Jokowi’s administration said they were personally “shocked” by the court ruling and subsequent announcement of Gibran’s candidacy.
There are also concerns within Jokowi’s political party, PDI-P, regarding the president’s actions and shifting allegiances.
The upcoming presidential elections are expected to be a tight race, with concerns about how President Widodo’s support for a rival candidate might impact the results. Some believe that Jokowi could use his popularity to sway voters towards Prabowo, while others think that public aversion to dynastic politics could lead to backlash.
An opinion survey found that almost 50% of people believed the court ruling was an “abuse of power” and that Gibran was an inappropriate candidate.
“This is about the arrogance of power and privilege. Ordinary Indonesians do not like it,” said Made Supriatma, visiting fellow at the ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore.
(Writing by Kay Johnson; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)
