Jakarta. Presidential candidate Prabowo Subanto emphasized that the government, as the executive branch, has never intervened in judicial matters, specifically concerning the Constitutional Court. 

This statement comes in response to a question raised by rival candidate Ganjar Pranowo during the presidential debate held on Tuesday. Ganjar was addressing the recent scrutiny of the Constitutional Court's decision to permit Gibran Rakabuming Raka, President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo's son, to run as a vice-presidential candidate, despite not meeting the minimum age requirement of 40. Gibran went on to become Prabowo's running mate.

"I believe that when it comes to the Constitutional Court, the rules are clear. We are not children, our people are intelligent, our people observe, our people know, Mr. Ganjar," Prabowo said.

Under the court's ruling, the article was modified to create exceptions for those under 40 who have served or are currently serving in elected public office. Gibran, at 36, became eligible due to his election as the mayor of Solo two years ago.

This controversial decision was made by a Constitutional Court panel led by Chief Justice Anwar Usman, who happens to be Gibran's uncle. Anwar was later removed from his position by the court's ethics council.

"We understand how the process works. Who intervenes? We uphold the Constitution, we uphold the law. We rectify imperfections, we adhere to the commitments of the law itself," added Prabowo.

Prabowo also agreed with rival presidential candidate Anies Baswedan to strengthen the judiciary with competent judges.

"I agree with Mr. Anies, we must make the judiciary strong. There should be a merit system, there should be proper assessments so that the judges are the best for Indonesia," Prabowo said during the presidential debate.

The first presidential debate of the 2024 Presidential Election addresses themes related to governance, law, human rights (HAM), corruption eradication, democracy strengthening, public service improvement, and community harmony.

The KPU has scheduled five rounds of presidential and vice-presidential debates for the 2024 Presidential Election, taking place during the campaign period from November 28 to February 10.

The second debate is scheduled for Dec. 22, while the third and fourth debates will be held on Jan. 7 and 21, 2024. The final debate will take place on Feb. 4, 2024. All five presidential and vice-presidential debates are held in Jakarta.