Jakarta. President Joko Widodo asserted on Wednesday that he possesses the right to take sides in elections and participate in campaign events, despite his responsibilities as the head of state.

These statements might raise eyebrows, as his predecessor, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, refrained from publicly engaging in political campaigns towards the end of his tenure in 2014.

However, the 2017 election law explicitly allows a sitting president and cabinet members to partake in campaign rallies, either as candidates themselves or as supporters.

Article 299 of the law specifies that the president, vice president, cabinet members, and other state officials have the right to join campaign rallies for re-election or as registered campaigners for other candidates, subject to approval from the General Election Commission (KPU).

During these activities, they must take a leave, limited to one day a week during the campaign period. Participation in rallies on national holidays and weekends does not require leave.

Article 304 prohibits the use of state facilities during campaign rallies, including vehicles, buildings, official residences, and communication equipment.

The use of state budget and other government financial sources is strictly prohibited in political rallies.

The president and vice president will continue to be protected by the presidential security force during campaigns, and regular security protocols will apply during their presence.

However, certain public office holders are barred from participating in political rallies. This includes Supreme Court and Constitutional Court justices, judges at all levels, state auditors, the central bank governor and deputies, and directors, commissioners, and employees of state-owned and municipally-owned companies.

The ban also extends to service members of the military and police, village heads, civil servants, and citizens below the voting age.

Despite his statement, President Jokowi has never taken part in rallies this campaign season. His eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is contesting as a running mate for presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto for the Feb. 14 election.

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