Jakarta. The speaker of the Jakarta legislature has hinted at a proposal to extend Heru Budi Hartono’s term as acting governor beyond its upcoming expiration, ensuring continuity until after the next election.

Heru, who was appointed on October 17, 2022, has been serving as a temporary governor until the country’s first-ever simultaneous elections for governors, mayors, and regents. His term is set to end in just four days.

“The current regulations allow for an extension of the acting governor’s term,” said Jakarta Legislative Council Speaker Achmad Yani, as quoted by Antara news agency on Friday.

However, legislative procedures must be restarted since Heru will have served for two years. Political parties within the provincial legislature are required to propose candidates with high-level government experience, equivalent to an echelon I position. The council must submit three names to the Minister of Home Affairs, who will then present them to the president for final approval.

City Councilor Mujiyono confirmed that Heru is one of three potential candidates being considered for the role of acting governor until after the election. The other two candidates are Jakarta Secretary Joko Agus Setyono and Vice Governor Marullah Matali.

“Heru has demonstrated competence and notable achievements during his term, which is why he deserves to have his tenure extended,” said Mujiyono, a member of the Democratic Party.