Central Java Gubernatorial Election Debate 2024, Ahmad Luthfi: Becoming General Hoegeng, Not Sambo

Ahmad Luthfi In The Central Java Pilkada Cagub Debate 2024/ Photo: IST

JAKARTA - In the closing statement of the third debate for the 2024 Central Java Pilkada, gubernatorial candidate Ahmad Luthfi emphasized the importance of integrity, unity, and maturity in democracy.

Ahmad Luthfi appointed the figure of General Hoegeng, the legendary police officer from Central Java, as a role model for leadership.

"I learned a lot from the late General Hoegeng. He is a police figure from Central Java who is honest, close to the people, and steadfast in upholding the principles of truth. He is my role model. I want to be General Hoegeng, not Sambo," he said, Thursday, November 21.

On that occasion, Luthfi also expressed his appreciation to his two competitors, Andika Perkasa and Hendrar Prihadi, who he called friends in this political contestation.

"Mas Andika, Mas Hendi, we are very proud to be side by side with the two of them. This regional election is only a political contest, but our friendship must be maintained," he said.

Luthfi did not forget to thank the party that carried, volunteers and sympathizers who had provided support and enthusiasm during the campaign period.

Luthfi also paid special tribute to Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for the trust and support that had been given, which he considered a valuable provision on his journey.

"As Javanese, we practice the principle of hoe dhuwur mendhem jero. Thank you for all the advice, support, and trust that has been given," he said with gratitude.

Luthfi also expressed his respect for the Advisory Board consisting of a number of retired TNI and Polri, and recalled the services of the late General Hoegeng as a true example.

"To all the people of Central Java, thank you for the support and hope that has been given to us. We also apologize if there were shortcomings during the campaign period," he said.

As a form of attention to vulnerable groups, Luthfi specifically greeted his family using sign language.

"Living Central Java is not only for the Pilkada. So, let's remove all criticism and stop attacking each other. If hatred continues to be spread, the people who will suffer will be the people, and Central Java will be miserable," he said.