Projo: Jokowi's Field Visits Not an Attempt to Take Over Government Functions

Projo, supporters of Indonesia’s seventh president Joko Widodo, have stated that Jokowi’s planned field visits across Indonesia are purely social engagements to meet citizens. Projo’s secretary-general, Fredi Alex Damanik, urged against misrepresenting the agenda as excessive political narratives. ‘We want to clarify that this is not a campaign, not an attempt to take over government functions, nor an interference with President Prabowo Subianto,’ Fredi said in a written statement on Tuesday (26 May). Fredi stated that Jokowi’s field visits across Indonesia reflect a commitment to sustaining development and national unity. Over his decade-long presidency, Fredi noted, Jokowi has established a leadership tradition of being close to the people. The field visits, he said, are not merely symbolic but a way for Jokowi to directly understand citizens’ issues. ‘Therefore, it is incorrect for any party to immediately accuse his activities of being political manoeuvres,’ he added. Fredi called on the public not to be provoked by deliberate framing pitting Jokowi against Prabowo. He stressed the current government requires national stability and support from all sectors of society. ‘President Jokowi has repeatedly affirmed his support for the continuity of President Prabowo’s administration,’ he said. Jokowi previously announced his recovery and plans to tour several Indonesian regions soon. Jokowi stressed the trips are to fulfil numerous invitations from local communities. ‘Yes, I have many invitations from regions for me to attend. I’m healthy now and will visit these invitations,’ Jokowi said at his residence in Sumber, Banjarsari, on Monday (25 May). Jokowi explained that besides social visits, he will also motivate the public. Jokowi declined to elaborate when asked whether the regional tour was an initial step or early preparation for the 2029 presidential election to support his son Gibran Rakabuming Raka. ‘There are invitations from the regions,’ Jokowi replied briefly.