KPU And Paslon Team Discuss 5 Debates For Presidential And Vice Presidential Candidates, From Formats To Panelists

The atmosphere of the coordination meeting between the KPU and the campaign team from three pairs of presidential and vice-presidential candidates at the Indonesian KPU Office, Jakarta, Wednesday (6/12/2023). (ANTARA/Rio Feisal)

The General Election Commission (KPU) together with each campaign team for presidential and vice presidential candidates discussed five matters related to the implementation of the presidential and vice-presidential debates for the 2024 General Election.

KPU chairman Hasyim Asy'ari, when opening the coordination meeting said the five things were formats, themes, moderators, debate panelists, and the number of people who could attend the debate from each candidate.

"At least, there are five things we need to discuss. This will be an overview of the KPU that we need to respond to together, so that we get the right and precise format, and in accordance with the provisions of the legislation," said Hasyim as quoted by ANTARA, Wednesday, December 6.

Hasyim also responded to polemics related to the format of debate that brought all presidential and vice-presidential candidates to every debate. According to him, it is actually a benchmark that people have a concern for election campaigns.

"After yesterday's meeting, then there was a debate about one week this enlivened the debate over the presidential and vice-presidential candidates; I think it's interesting. Why? Then, everyone is aware (care), everyone is paying attention to one of the stages of our election, namely campaign, especially the method of debate," said Hasyim.

The KPU on Wednesday (29/11), decided that all debate activities would be broadcast live on a number of national television (TV) and other electronic media channels.

The first debate will be held on December 12 with the theme law, human rights (HAM), government, eradication of corruption, and strengthening democracy.

The second debate was held on December 22 with the theme defense, security, geopolitical, and international relations.

The third debate was held on January 7 with the theme of the people's economy and the digital economy, social welfare, investment, trade, taxes, infrastructure, finance, and management of the state budget.

The fourth debate was on January 21, 2024 with the theme of energy, natural resources, carbon tax, food, environment, and agrarianism as well as indigenous peoples.

Finally, the fifth debate on February 4 carries the theme of information technology, improving public services, hoaxes, intolerance, education, health, and employment.