Jakarta – Presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto pledged to be the leader for all Indonesian citizens, irrespective of their ethnicity and religion, in a victory speech after quick count results indicated his win in the presidential election on Wednesday.
All major pollsters reported a convincing victory for Prabowo with 57-59 percent of the vote, based on samples collected from 2,000 polling stations across the country.
Prabowo was all smiles as he addressed thousands of supporters at the Istora Sports Stadium in Jakarta, accompanied by his running mate, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the eldest son of President Joko Widodo.
“We are grateful that the quick count results from all survey agencies indicate a clear win for Prabowo and Gibran,” Prabowo said, receiving thunderous applause from the audience.
“We will serve as the president and vice president for all Indonesian people. I have repeatedly said that I will protect all citizens, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or social background. It is our responsibility to work for the best interests of the Indonesian people,” he added.
Currently serving as the defense minister, Prabowo said he will select the most competent individuals to fill his future cabinet.
“However, we need to wait for the official tally from the KPU [General Election Commission] but I’m confident that the democratic process in Indonesia is being implemented properly. It’s the people who decide their desired leaders,” Prabowo said.
Prabowo, who was defeated in the 2014 and 2019 presidential elections, thanked the KPU for its success in organizing one of the most complex and biggest elections in the world.
He also delivered a conciliatory message to rival candidates Anies Baswedan and Ganjar Pranowo, saying “the campaign period is over” and “strong words and hostile approach” are things of the past now.
Source: jakartaglobe.id