JK Proposes East Java Leader To Be Anies' Vice Presidential Candidate, PKS Still Nominates Aher, Former West Java Governor

Ahmad Heryawan/DOC pks.id

JAKARTA - The Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) continues to put forward the name of the former Governor of West Java, Ahmad Heryawan or Aher as a vice presidential candidate (cawapres) from the Coalition for Change for Unity (KPP). Although, there was a criterion suggestion from 10th Vice President Jusuf Kalla regarding Anies Baswedan's companion having to come from East Java.

"We are Aher, the decision of the Syuro Council, Kang Aher," said PKS DPP chairman Mardani Ali Sera, Tuesday, March 28.

According to Mardani, Anies' proposal for vice president applies to figures throughout Indonesia. Meanwhile, Java Island should be considered because it is an area with a large electorate.

"Not East Java, not Central Java, Yes, all of Indonesia's votes are guarded. Even though West Java, Central Java, East Java are the biggest voters worth considering," said Mardani.

Even though they don't know the name proposed by JK, Mardani said that East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa, who has been associated with Anies, has a chance to become vice presidential candidate.

"I don't want to speak on behalf of the team. (But) Mrs. Khofifah has three strengths, one from East Java, two from NU background, three women, so she has many," said Mardani.

It's just that, he added, this opportunity still has to be considered whether Khofifah can help Anies win. In addition, the vice presidential candidate must also have compatibility with the presidential candidate.

"The strengths of each of the proposed vice presidential candidates are many and later we will see which one is the most suitable. Anies' electability (criteria) has increased quantitatively qualitatively, being able to work with Anies, two singles because it is hard for Indonesia to really unite the president and vice president, Mardani said.