TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The Palace stated that President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo had given permission for SOE Minister Erick Thohir to participate in the election to become the chairperson of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI). Jokowi also said that he will not interfere in the election market despite the fact that one of his cabinet ministers will be running as a candidate.
“He will not make any intervention. He will completely leave it to PSSI,” said Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung after a meeting with the state head at the State Palace, Central Jakarta on Monday, January 16, 2023.
The decision, Pramono added, is in the hands of voters. “Now it’s up to the voters, whether to vote for Pak Erick or La Nyalla, or whoever is the candidate,” Pramono said, mentioning La Nyalla Mattalitti, the Regional Representatives Council (DPD) Speaker who also nominated himself as a chairman candidate.
Pramono further emphasized that Erick had definitely reported and asked permission from the state head. “It is impossible for Pak Erick to run without the president’s permission,” said the PDIP politician.
When asked whether Erick should resign from his position as SOE Minister, Pramono did not provide a clear answer. He only mentioned that Erick has not yet become the general chairman of PSSI. “Don’t make assumptions,” Pramono said concerning Erick Thohir’s chances of having a double position.
FAJAR PEBRIANTO
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