In this first episode of 2019, we’re back — and ready with our hot takes!
We discuss the first round of presidential debates between candidates Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and Prabowo Subianto, with their respective running mates Ma’ruf Amin and Sandiaga Uno. This first round of debate tackled issues of human rights, corruption, the law, and terrorism — but you wouldn’t have guessed it from the reactions of most viewers, including us, who thought the debate was lackluster, gimmicky, and dramatic for the wrong reasons. We chat about how Sandi was probably the big winner of the night and how Ma’ruf Amin needs to improve on his debating skills before he can match Sandi and Prabowo, and do Jokowi justice.
We also provide a quick update on the release of Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, better known as Ahok (although he now prefers to be called by his proper name or BTP instead of his Chinese-Indonesian moniker), after nearly two years in prison because of blasphemy charges. The former governor of Jakarta is expected to be released without much fanfare and is unlikely to participate in Indonesian politics or anything involving the presidential elections. There have been reports that BTP will be speaking in various engagements outside the country after his release.
Thanks for listening!
