T

he Presidential Office (KSP) has welcomed a new member on board — Golkar politician Ali Mochtar Ngabalin, who was known for his controversial comments against President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo.

The appointment of Ngabalin, who was also a campaign team member of Prabowo Subianto, Jokowi’s rival in the 2014 presidential election, was signed by Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko on May 1.

The news, however, broke on Wednesday only after Ngabalin himself revealed his new appointment to some local news outlets.

The reports, which initially quoted Ngabalin’s claim that he was appointed as a member of Jokowi’s special staff, immediately sparked controversy.

Moeldoko later issued a clarification, saying Ngabalin had been appointed as a new member of Jokowi’s team, and not as a member of his special staff.

“For the government, there is no such political opponent. Everyone is a partner in terms of democracy,” Moeldoko said on Wednesday, while defending his decision.

Ngabalin will now work as an expert staff member under Eko Sulistyo, Moeldoko’s deputy for political communications and dissemination of information and a former member of Jokowi’s presidential campaign team.

“He will help communicate the government’s achievements to the public,” Moeldoko said.

Ngabalin is among four newcomers to join Moeldoko’s team since the latter was inaugurated by Jokowi in January. Another new member is former General Elections Commission (KPU) chairman Juri Ardiantoro.