Jakarta. Vice presidential candidate Mohammad Mahfud expressed his gratitude to President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, describing him as a leader deeply concerned about the welfare of the people.

"As this is the final vice presidential debate, I want to express my gratitude to Jokowi, because five years ago, he asked me to become the Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs," Mahfud said after the 2024 election presidential debate held at JCC Senayan on Sunday.

During the debate, Mahfud was involved in an intense debate with VP candidate Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who is President Jokowi's oldest son, on green inflation, illegal mining, and the indigenous people bill. Mahfud and VP candidate Muhaimin Iskandar frequently scrutinized Jokowi's program in the debate, focusing on topics such as food estate, forest fires, and deforestation.

Following his critiques of Jokowi's programs during the debate, Mahfud reaffirmed his dedication to continuing the president's ongoing initiatives during the post-debate press conference.

"I've learned more and realized that he cares a lot about the welfare and goodness of the people," he added.

Mahfud also said that his experience as a minister under President Jokowi served as inspiration for his decision to run as vice president alongside Ganjar Pranowo in the 2024 presidential election.

"That's why this year, I agreed to become Ganjar Pranowo's running mate because what I gained during Jokowi's presidency, I can continue in the duties under Ganjar Pranowo when he becomes president," he explained.

The fourth presidential debate of the 2024 election brought together vice presidential candidates Muhaimin Iskandar, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and Mohammad Mahfud MD. The debate focused on sustainable development and the environment, natural resources and energy, food, agrarian issues, indigenous communities, and village development.

The next presidential debate, which will be the final one, is scheduled for Feb. 4, 2024.