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Ahok ready for first official debate
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Incumbent Jakarta gubernatorial candidate Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama strikes a pose for journalists on the sidelines of his visit to a green open space and children-friendly integrated public space (RTH RPTRA) complex in Kalijodo, Jakarta, on Dec.17. (Antara/Muhammad Adimaja)
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ncumbent Jakarta Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama says he has prepared to convey his ideas effectively in the first official gubernatorial debate, which will be organized by the Jakarta General Elections Commission (KPU Jakarta) on Friday.
"We've tried to improve my speech. We have to get our timing right in the debate so we won't exceed the speaking time limit [set by the debate organizer]," Ahok said at the Palma One building in South Jakarta on Thursday.
Ahok, who will face his rivals: Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, the son of former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and former culture and education minister Anies Baswedan, admitted that he had a lot of ideas, which could lead him to straying off topic during the debate, especially if asked general questions.
"I might talk too much because I might recall all the things I've done [as governor] when responding," he said.
(Read also: Agus, Ahok, Anies to jostle over development plans in debate)
Ahok went on to say that he had comprehended the topics for Friday’s debate, which would discuss social issues and the economy.
He said he would have a lot to say regarding those subjects, including the provision of staple food subsidies, granting fish cultivation assistance, providing free buses to low-cost apartment occupants and low-income residents. (jun)
