Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The Advisory Board Chair of Joko Widodo-Ma`ruf Amin National Campaign Team, Jusuf Kalla, said that the appointment of the Crescent Star Party (PBB) chairman, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, as a lawyer for the presidential candidate pair was based on political reasons.

"Of course, there are political aspects as well, but I think it is natural," Kalla said at the Office of the Vice President here on Tuesday.

Apart from political reasons, Yusril`s appointment as a legal advisory team to the pair was also based on his ability as a lawyer.

"Yes, it is natural. He cannot be a lawyer if he is not an expert. And indeed by profession, Yusril is a lawyer," he added.

Regarding the possibility of PBB party closing in on the Jokowi-Ma`ruf camp, Kalla noted that it was not in his capacity to answer.

"It (the question) should be addressed to Pak Yusril," he added.

Meanwhile, incumbent President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) expressed his gratitude for including the former secretary of state in his winning team for the 2019 Presidential Election.

"Good, Alhamdulillah," Jokowi noted at the Lebak Bulus MRT Depot, Jakarta.

Previously, Yusril expressed his willingness to become a lawyer for the Jokowi-Ma`ruf pair after meeting with the Chairman of the National Campaign Team (TKN) Erick Thohir.

Jokowi himself welcomed Yusril`s willingness, adding that he had experience and professionalism. He pointed out that the decision to appoint Mahendra was his wish and also that of Tohir.

"We know the professionalism of Pak Yusril Ihza," Jokowi noted.

Reporting by Fransiska Ninditya
Editing by Eliswan, Sri Haryati

Reporter: antara
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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