08 Apr 2019 | 02:59 AM UTC
Indonesia: Large campaign rallies continue ahead of April 17 elections /update 1
Presidential candidates host large campaign rallies on April 6-7 ahead of April 17 general elections; further rallies and political events, along with associated disruptions, expected in coming days
Event
Indonesian presidential candidates, incumbent Joko Widodo and challenger Prabowo Subianto, held mass election rallies on Saturday, April 6, and Sunday, April 7, as their presidential campaigns enter the final stage before polling on Wednesday, April 17. Joko Widodo, also known as Jokowi, held a rally in Batam (Riau Islands province) on Saturday and in South Tangerang (Banten province) on Sunday. Prabowo also held a mass rally on Sunday at Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno stadium. Further mass rallies are expected in Indonesia in the coming days before the campaign blackout period begins on Sunday, April 14. Associated disruptions, including increased congestion and crowded conditions, localized traffic disruptions, and heightened security presence and measures, are expected around all political events.
Context
Incumbent President Joko Widodo, also known as Jokowi, of the PDI-P faces challenger Gerindra party candidate Prabowo Subianto, a retired general who previously ran in 2014. Jokowi selected Nahdlatul Ulama leader Ma'ruf Amin as his running mate and Prabowo's vice presidential candidate is Jakarta Deputy Governor Sandiaga Uno.
Advice
Individuals in Indonesia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all political demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
