Bandung Mayor Ridwan Kamil has named his pick to behis running mate in the upcoming 2018 West Java election:Bogor Mayor Bima Arya.
Ridwan considered Bima as a complete figure to be his partner in the election.
"[It is] based on the requirement and his experience. Bima himself is now serving as Bogor Mayor and the most possible cadre from National Mandate Party (PAN) is him," said Ridwan in Historical Park, Bandung, Thursday.
According to him, in a democracy a prospective leader is required to posses both popularity and capability and Bima has both.
Ridwan admitted that he is still waiting for Bima Arya's answer to accept his offer to be his runningmatein West Java election. Nonetheless, the mayor also is still trying to collect supports from other political parties.
"Bima is still on his istikharah (an Islamic prayer to seek guidance in making decision). If he later agrees, that doesn't mean we can give it a go. The coalition had to approve it," he added.
Meanwhile, PAN Chairman Zulkifli Hasan on Wednesday, said that he had reached out to Bima about Ridwan's intention.
"I have asked Bima Arya, who currently serves as Mayor. He requested for two days to decide whether he run in the election or remain as mayor," said Zulkifli on the sidelines of the last day of PAN National Congress in Asrilia Hotel, Bandung.
Besides their intention to endorse Ridwan Kamil, the party is also thinkingabout nominating West Java Deputy Governor Deddy Mizwar. But, Ridwan isthe only one who has given a green light to make coalition with PAN, according to Zulkifli.
Zulkifli claimed to have explained toBima that should he choose to stay as the Mayor of Bogor, PAN most likely will endorseDeddy Mizwar. Thus, Bima is now has the final say on the party's move for the upcoming election.
"These are our options, just wait for Bima Arya's answer. If there's no cadre [willing to run in West Java election], we'll probably endorse Deddy Mizwar," said Zulkifli.
(brl/red)
