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n the midst of a power struggle with its political ally the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), the Gerindra Party’s Jakarta executive board (DPD) has nominated its chairman, M. Taufik, for the seat of Jakarta deputy governor left vacant by Sandiaga Uno, who is running for vice president alongside Gerindra Party chairman Prabowo Subianto.

The nomination was declared just days after the PKS nominated two of its members, Ahmad Syaikhu and Agung Yulianto, for the same seat. Gerindra Jakarta deputy chairman Syarif said the decision was made unanimously during the DPD’s meeting last Friday and was based on Taufik’s leadership experience, including his tenure as deputy speaker in the Jakarta Council.

“He has more than 18 years’ experience in leading organizations, especially as the city council deputy speaker,” Syarif said on Monday, kompas.com reported. He said the Gerindra DPD would consult with the party’s executive board (DPP) to discuss the nomination.

“The Gerindra Jakarta DPD will consult with the DPP and hand over the recommendation letter for our nominee for the seat of the Jakarta deputy governor to be processed according to prevailing rules.”

However, Gerindra deputy secretary-general Andre Rosiade told tempo.co that Prabowo’s niece, Rahayu “Sara” Saraswati Djojohadikusumo, would also be one of the party’s candidates for the seat.

Sara is currently a member of House Commission VII on religious and social affairs and women’s empowerment.

Last week, PKS executive Hidayat Nur Wahid said Gerindra had already taken enough prestigious posts.