Jakarta. Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla praised Jakarta gubernatorial candidate Pramono Anung, calling him a hard worker while comparing him to the outspoken former Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, better known as Ahok.

Kalla, however, stopped short of giving an outright endorsement to Pramono, who, along with his running mate Rano Karno, visited Kalla's home in Jakarta on Monday evening.

"Mr. Pram is an old friend of mine -- we've worked together in government for nearly 20 years. He's not as combative as Ahok, but I can guarantee he's a dedicated worker," Kalla told reporters after the meeting.

During their conversation, Kalla said he reminded Pramono and Rano of the pressing issues facing Jakarta, including chronic traffic congestion, flooding, and the deterioration of living conditions -- problems they will need to address if they win the election.

At 82 years old, Kalla admitted he wouldn't be able to physically assist with Pramono's campaign. When asked if he favored Pramono over his rival, Ridwan Kamil, Kalla replied, "Let's hope the best candidate wins. I believe Pramono is a good man."

Earlier that day, Pramono revealed that he plans to continue several policies implemented during Ahok's administration, including the large-scale deployment and recruitment of Jakarta’s cleaning crew, known as the "orange squad."

Pramono, who is running on the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) ticket, said he intends to extend the squad's contracts from one year to three and relax the hiring requirements.

"Even elementary school graduates can apply, as long as they meet the necessary qualifications," Pramono explained.

Ahok, also a PDI-P executive, was elected vice governor of Jakarta in 2012 and became governor two years later when his running mate, Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, ascended to the presidency. Known for his hard-working and outspoken leadership style, Ahok frequently clashed with critics during his tenure.

His bid for reelection ended in defeat in 2017, following an election marred by sectarian tensions and allegations that he had insulted the Quran. Ahok lost to populist candidate Anies Baswedan, who had received Jusuf Kalla's explicit support.

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