The decision was read out by the party`s general chairman, Hatta Rajasa, who is also currently chief economic minister, at a national leadership meeting.Jakarta (Antara News) - The National Mandate Party (PAN) has formally decided to coalesce with the Great Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra) and support Gerindras presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto.
The decision was read out by the partys general chairman, Hatta Rajasa, who is also currently chief economic minister, at a national leadership meeting here on Wednesday.
"We have by acclamation agreed to coalesce with the Gerindra and nominate Prabowo as presidential candidate," he said.
Hatta added that the meeting attendees had also agreed to nominate him as the running mate of Prabowo Subianto.
He said the coalition was formed not on a pragmatical approach let alone transactional, but on a common vision, mission and platform.
At the end of the meeting, which was also attended by Prabowo Subianto and several high ranking party officials of the Gerindra, Hatta presented the results of the meeting to Prabowo.
Prabowo on the occasion expressed thanks for the trust that the PAN had bestowed on him and promised to preserve the mandate.
"I can only pray and strive and hope I will not disappoint you," he said.
About 1,000 cadres gathered at the PAN headquarters, where the meeting took place.
Prabowo arrived at the headquarters at around 1.30 p. m., following Gerindra leaders such as general chairman Suhardi, secretary general Ahmad Muzani and deputy advisory board chairman Hashim Djojohadikusumo, who is also Prabowos brother.
Prabowos strong rival in the presidential election scheduled on July 9 is Jakarta governor Joko Widodo (Jokowi) from the Indonesia Democratic Party Struggle (PDIP).(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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