Jakarta. Gibran Rakabuming Raka is on the verge of a major test, where he must demonstrate his qualifications for the vice presidential role beyond being President Joko Widodo's son. 

Preparations are in full swing for his appearance on the debate stage this Tuesday.

The spotlight is expected to be on the 36-year-old candidate as he squares off against more seasoned opponents, Mohammad Mahfud MD and Muhaimin Iskandar, who are also vying for the vice presidency.

Mahfud, the current chief security minister, boasts a career as a law professor, lawmaker, and former chief justice of the Constitutional Court.

Muhaimin, the chairman of the National Awakening Party (PKB), brings extensive experience as a House of Representatives member and former manpower minister.

In contrast, Gibran's political resume primarily includes his last three years as the mayor of Solo. He was even initially ineligible to contest for failing to meet the minimum age requirement of 40 until the Constitutional Court amended the regulation in October.

The running mate of presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto chose to maintain a low profile, abstaining from recent public discussions involving all candidates.

However, there will be five debates before the February 14 election, with the last two obliging the running mates to attend.

While the opening debate is primarily intended for the presidential candidates, all running mates are expected to share the stage.

The candidates will respond to questions formulated by selected academicians and experts, centered on governance systems, the rule of law, anti-corruption measures, and human rights issues.

"I’m ready," Gibran said briefly in Jakarta on Saturday when asked about his readiness.

Despite Gibran's relative lack of political experience compared to seasoned politicians like Mahfud or Muhaimin, his youthful vigor is precisely why Prabowo selected him as a running mate. He is anticipated to appeal to young voters, who represent a substantial portion of eligible voters.

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