Jakarta. Jakarta gubernatorial candidates Pramono Anung, Ridwan Kamil, and Dharma Pongrekun have pledged to keep their campaigns free of religious and identity politics, calling for a peaceful and exemplary election as they secured their ballot numbers for the 2024 race.

Speaking at the Jakarta General Elections Commission (KPU) office after the drawing of candidate numbers on Monday, Pramono and his running mate Rano Karno emphasized their commitment to a positive and joyful election process.

"We promise not to bring religion or identity politics into this campaign. Let’s compete joyfully and make this election an enjoyable experience," Pramono said.

For Pramono, who secured the number 3 position on the ballot, Jakarta represents a continuation of past efforts rather than a fresh start. "Jakarta is not a new story, so we aren’t writing a new book; we’re opening a new chapter to be filled together," he remarked.

He also shared that he had consulted with former Jakarta governors, including Fauzi Bowo, Sutiyoso, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok), and Anies Baswedan, as well as national figures like Jusuf Kalla, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and Megawati Soekarnoputri, to gain insights and learn from their leadership experiences.

Additionally, Pramono mentioned that he has engaged directly with the people, meeting with various groups such as online motorcycle taxi drivers, marginalized communities, and residents of areas like Kampung Bayam. These interactions, he said, have shaped his vision for a brighter future for the city.

"Our goal is to make Jakarta a place where finding a job is simple. With teamwork, we’ll make Jakarta a city that is easy, comfortable, and enjoyable," he said, urging voters to focus on ideas that will improve the city.

Meanwhile, fellow candidate Ridwan Kamil, who drew the number 1 position, encouraged his supporters to maintain a peaceful and positive approach throughout the election process. He urged them to make the Jakarta election a model for the rest of the country.

"Let’s make this election a national example — an upgraded, peaceful, and exemplary election," Ridwan said, emphasizing the need to avoid negative actions and adhere to campaign rules.

Ridwan also called on his supporters to refrain from producing negative content about their opponents and to avoid engaging in vote-buying practices, expressing confidence that the voters of Jakarta are intelligent and will make informed choices.

"Jakarta’s citizens are smart, and they will choose candidates who can offer relevant solutions after the capital moves. We are ready to bring Jakarta forward," Ridwan affirmed.

Jakarta gubernatorial candidate Dharma Pongrekun reminded the public of the importance of prioritizing order and decorum during the upcoming election campaign.

“We urge the community to maintain peace during the upcoming campaign period by upholding unity, harmony, and decorum,” Dharma said on Monday.

According to Dharma, by firmly holding onto decorum, the campaign will proceed without disparaging other candidates or their supporters. This will create a safer and more beautiful Jakarta.

The KPU has assigned ballot numbers for the 2024 Jakarta gubernatorial election: Ridwan Kamil-Suswono as number 1, independent candidates Dharma Pongrekun-Kun Wardana as number 2, and Pramono Anung-Rano Karno as number 3.