Jokowi’s Full Statement on Gibran’s Resignation

Indonesia’s seventh president, Joko Widodo (Jokowi), has spoken publicly for the first time following reports that Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, his youngest son, plans to resign.

Jokowi said Gibran had discussed his plan to step down from the vice-presidency with him. He also shared several messages for his son.

Here is Jokowi’s full statement at his residence in Sumber, Solo, Central Java, on Thursday (12 November):

“Political dynamics are inevitable in political office; that is normal. I have told Mas Gibran that public office is temporary. We must continue to support the government, particularly programmes that serve the interests of the wider public. That is all.”

Jokowi also said he had spoken with Gibran before his son decided to resign.

He went on to urge Gibran to continue supporting President Prabowo’s programmes even if he no longer holds political office.

“We must continue to support President Prabowo’s government, particularly programmes that serve the interests of the wider public,” Jokowi said.