"I have not decided. I have just received the resignation letter yesterday. Give me two to three days," Jokowi remarked after attending the opening of the XVI GP Ansor Congress at Tanjung Priok Harbor, Jakarta, on Friday.
When asked about the background of Mahfud's replacement from professional circles or party cadres, Jokowi revealed that the figure had yet to be decided.
The head of state has also not provided information regarding the status of Mahfud's replacement minister as definitive or interim minister.
"We will see it later," he responded.
The president said he was still preparing a presidential decree regarding Mahfud's resignation.
Related news: Mahfud's exit should not disrupt ministry functions: Jokowi's aide
On Thursday (February 1), Mahfud met President Jokowi at the Merdeka Palace to hand over his letter of resignation from his ministerial position in the Indonesia Onward Cabinet.
Jokowi considered that Mahfud's decision in leaving his post was normal and re-emphasized that he respected this decision.
Mahfud, who is also running in the 2024 presidential election as a vice presidential candidate, wanted to resign in order to set an example for other state officials to not abuse their position and state facilities for election campaigns.
He has also discussed his political steps with his running partner in the 2024 presidential election, Ganjar Pranowo, as well as with supporting parties and the campaign team.
However, Mahfud conveyed that he would not leave his obligations as a minister until a presidential decree was issued.
"If the presidential decree has not been issued, I will not leave my duty," he remarked.
Mahfud first expressed his intent to resign from his post during an event in Semarang, Central Java, on January 23, 2024. At the event, Mahfud said that he was waiting for the right time to resign from the cabinet.
"I am waiting for the right timing," he remarked. (INE)
Related news: Minister Mahfud assures security for upcoming general elections
Translator: Rangga Pandu A J, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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