Gibran Rakabuming Raka appointed as campaigner for potential presidential candidate Ganjar Pranowo

In a significant move, the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) has designated Gibran Rakabuming Raka as one of the campaign team members for potential presidential candidate Ganjar Pranowo.

Gibran, who is the Mayor of Solo, expressed his willingness to travel across the country to introduce Ganjar Pranowo as the PDI-P’s prospective presidential candidate. However, specific details about the campaign agenda remain undisclosed as Gibran awaits the official schedule from the party.

One crucial aspect that Gibran is eagerly awaiting is guidance from the PDI-P regarding the activities of volunteers in supporting Ganjar Pranowo’s candidacy.

He mentioned that he would promptly act on any directives received from the party leadership. The involvement of Gibran, the eldest son of President Joko Widodo, holds strategic significance as he is expected to appeal to the youth and play a crucial role in Ganjar’s electoral campaign.

While Gibran’s appointment as a campaigner was initially intended for boosting Ganjar Pranowo’s chances in the upcoming 2024 Presidential Election, there have been speculations regarding a potential collaboration with Ganjar’s son, Alam Ganjar, who has also been appointed as a campaigner for his father. Gibran, however, has not confirmed any communication or plans related to this matter.

Recently, on 22 July, Gibran Rakabuming Raka officially commenced his duties as Ganjar Pranowo’s campaigner by accompanying him during a visit to several places in Bogor.

Together with thousands of enthusiastic citizens, Ganjar engaged in a morning run and visited the Citeureup Market. During the blusukan (impromptu visit), Gibran expressed admiration for Ganjar’s attentiveness to the issues and concerns of the people, adding that he was impressed with Ganjar’s dedication to listening to the people’s problems.

Gibran clarified that his role as a campaigner would extend beyond Solo and the province, but the specific regions he will visit have yet to be disclosed. Emphasizing the importance of not interfering with his official duties as Mayor, Gibran assured that his campaign schedule would be flexible and subject to instructions from the party.

Adian Napitupulu, an Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) politician

Adian Napitupulu, a PDI-P politician, lauded Gibran’s commitment to supporting Ganjar Pranowo, asserting that his presence solidifies the party’s endorsement for Ganjar’s candidacy.

Adian highlighted the significance of Gibran’s involvement in refuting claims of him supporting any other presidential candidate besides Ganjar.

The party secretary-general, Hasto Kristiyanto, also expressed appreciation for Gibran’s readiness to campaign for Ganjar, noting that it has bolstered the enthusiasm of the entire campaign team.

Addressing the media, Gibran stated that he maintains close ties with three potential presidential candidates for the 2024 election. “I’m close to all of them. Pak Prabowo, Pak Anies. But closest to Pak Ganjar,” he said, as quoted from TribunSolo.com. Gibran also affirmed his readiness to be tasked again by the PDIP to accompany Ganjar Pranowo on visits to various regions. “If ordered, I will go,” said Gibran.

Gibran and Ganjar have indeed been meeting quite frequently in the past month. After participating in the an local traditional event, ‘Kirab Malam 1 Suro’ at Pura Mangkunegaran Solo, the two met again at Manahan Stadium to commemorate Senior Citizens Day.

Furthermore, Gibran was previously appointed as Ganjar Pranowo’s campaigner (jurkam) by the Secretary-General of the PDIP, Hasto Kristiyanto. His recent visit to Bogor Regency was reportedly related to this role.

However, Gibran rejected being referred to as Ganjar’s campaigner at this time, as the official campaign period for the 2024 Presidential Election has not yet begun.

“I am not a campaigner, the campaign period hasn’t started,” said Gibran on Thursday (July 20).

In response to Gibran’s readiness to campaign for Ganjar Pranowo in the 2024 Presidential Election, the Secretary-General of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), Hasto Kristiyanto, expressed appreciation.

Hasto mentioned that Gibran’s commitment to supporting Ganjar has boosted the enthusiasm of Ganjar Pranowo’s campaign team. He asserted that Gibran’s endorsement serves as a motivating factor for the entire campaign team to remain united and determined. “That’s why what Mas Gibran conveyed is positive and adds to the fighting spirit of the entire team supporting Pak Ganjar,” he concluded.

It is evident that Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s involvement in Ganjar Pranowo’s campaign is poised to make a significant impact on the political landscape leading up to the 2024 Presidential Election.

As the official campaign period approaches, all eyes will be on how Gibran and other campaigners work to galvanize support for their chosen candidate, and ultimately, shape the course of Indonesia’s political future.