On July 9, Indonesians went to their respective polling places to choose who would be their president for the next 5 years.
Legitimate news outlets and quick counts produced by respected organizations reported that the current Governor of Jakarta (and former Mayor of Solo), Joko Widodo (or Jokowi as he is commonly known) was the winner with anywhere from a 5.5 to 7 percent lead. These results were contested by the candidate with less votes and the country had to wait until today, almost two weeks later, to learn the results. Millions of paper ballots from the entirety of Indonesia had to be counted by hand.
As many people expected and based on the original projections, Jokowi was announced the winner with a total vote percentage of 53.15%.
Today is a good day.
I first learned about Jokowi in 2011 when I visited the town of Solo, Central Java, where Jokowi was serving as mayor. The town looked different, it felt different, and people looked happier. From a planning perspective, Solo was doing something right. I asked my friend about it and was quickly told that it was because Solo had an amazing mayor. Jokowi was (and is) known for the rapport he created with the people. I was also told that he had sought the counsel of urban planning professionals and others in order to make his city beautiful and functional. From more humble beginnings that most politicians, he listened to the people in the community. He heard them. To me, it seemed he respected their opinions, perspectives and dreams. He empowered them. To me, he loved them. I've been his fan ever since.
In 2012, Jokowi was elected to the position of Governor in one of the largest cities in the world, Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. From the very beginning, he started making changes. Continuing his vision, he empowered the people. He listened to them. He respected them. He worked hard, tirelessly pushing for efficient government services, clean rivers, responsible leadership, honesty, and service to the communities. On a recent visit to Jakarta, I could see his influence...I saw the rivers being cleaned, I road the buses with exclusive lanes, I walked on safe, maintained sidewalks. I saw clean parks and big trees. And I felt the love.
It's hard to believe that one person can make such a difference, but he has. Known for his down-to-earth style, plaid shirts with rolled up sleeves, and a penchant for Metallica, he hasn't done the amazing things he's done alone. He is a catalyst. An empowering human being who loves his people, his community, and his country enough to work to be the change. Listening to the people, honoring the integrity of tradition, humble and intelligent in seeking counsel from professionals when needed, and strong enough to get the job done, Jokowi is the penultimate leader who can inspire, empower, and most of all, love.
People all over the world deserve such leaders; leaders who have a vision for a better future for all people - every person in the community. I believe Jokowi is that person for Indonesia. I am very happy for my friends here who will enjoy a bright, empowered, and love-filled future!
And that is why I care about an election in a country other than my own. All citizens, everywhere, deserve a leader who loves them.
Today is a good day. Salam tiga jari.
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