Jakarta. Independent candidate Dharma Pongrekun, relatively unknown in the political arena, called for a departure from the sectarian tensions that marred the last gubernatorial election in Jakarta as he registered his candidacy on Thursday evening. Dharma will compete against prominent candidates nominated by major parties.

The 2017 Jakarta gubernatorial election was marked by significant sectarian strife, culminating in the defeat of incumbent Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, commonly known as Ahok, by Anies Baswedan. This election was accompanied by large-scale rallies by Muslim groups against the Christian governor. Following his defeat, Ahok was imprisoned for blasphemy -- a case brought forward by Anies’ supporters.

Despite the Joko Widodo administration's plans to relocate the national capital to Nusantara in East Kalimantan, Dharma said Jakarta remains a crucial focal point for national attention, underscoring the importance of a peaceful electoral process.

“Today, Jakarta continues to be a key social and political barometer for selecting our future leaders. It is essential that voters have the freedom to choose the best candidate for themselves,” Dharma stated.

His comments followed his registration with running mate Kun Wardhana at the provincial general election commission. The duo faces accusations of manipulating public support to qualify for the election.

Independent candidates must secure support from at least 7.5 percent of registered voters, which translates to nearly 619,000 signatures. This support must be validated with copies of ID cards and signed statements of allegiance.

Dharma and Kun are accused of collecting voters’ ID cards without consent through deceptive methods. However, the Election Oversight Body (Bawaslu) has yet to conclude its investigation into these allegations, allowing the pair to proceed with their registration.

“We are grateful to the hundreds of thousands of Jakarta residents who have supported our candidacy. We are committed to advancing your cause for a healthy, safe, and prosperous life,” Dharma said.

“Praise be to God for guiding us through these challenges, allowing us to stand here tonight.”

If his candidacy is accepted, Dharma will face off against Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung and former West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil, both of whom have the backing of major parties in the November 27 election.