Indonesia leader's volunteer network endorses ex-general Prabowo for president
Sign up now: Get insights on Asia's fast-moving developments
The endorsement of retired general Prabowo Subianto from the “Projo” network is the strongest signal yet.
PHOTO: REUTERS
Follow topic:
JAKARTA - The vast volunteer network of outgoing Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Saturday endorsed retired general Prabowo Subianto for president in February’s election.
The endorsement from the “Projo” network, seen as a proxy for the president, is the strongest signal yet that the incumbent will back his former rival in the closely contested race.
Mr Budi Arie Setiadi, Projo chief and the president’s communications minister, declared the group’s support during a press conference at Mr Prabowo’s Jakarta home.
“He is a brave man and is committed to the welfare of Indonesians,” Mr Budi said.
Mr Widodo, or widely known as Jokowi, has not yet officially endorsed any candidate.
While he does not lead a party of his own, he has an informal following of millions of volunteers who are active on social media and who promote his policies and presidency, especially ahead of elections.
The Projo network helped to propel him to victory against Mr Prabowo in the 2014 and 2019 presidential elections. REUTERS
