Mahfud's exit should not disrupt ministry functions: Jokowi's aide

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Coordinator of presidential special staff, Ari Dwipayana, expressed hope that the Coordinating Ministry for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs will continue functioning normally following Mahfud MD's resignation request.

Dwipayana made the statement on Wednesday after Mahfud, who is running as a vice presidential candidate in the upcoming presidential election, revealed that he will soon hand in his resignation to President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) in person.

"We hope no issues arise following the Coordinating Minister's resignation. Hopefully, the government administration and ministry functions should continue running smoothly," Dwipayana said in Jakarta.

After Mahfud submits his resignation, Jokowi will respond to the resignation request, he said, noting that the president may approve the request by issuing a presidential decree. He added that after permitting Mahfud to step down, Jokowi will appoint an official as the next leader of the ministry, either in the capacity of an acting minister or a definitive minister.

Dwipayana emphasized that the coordinating ministry has been carrying out its functions as usual. He also expressed optimism about Indonesia successfully holding the general elections, scheduled for February 14, as the country has a reliable and accountable election system.

"I trust our election system since it has been proven reliable," he stated.

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Earlier on the same day, Mahfud stated that he was planning to meet with Jokowi to submit his resignation.

"I will report (to the president); I am finished," he said in a live broadcast from Lampung.

He added that he will submit his resignation letter as soon as he finds an opportunity to meet with Jokowi, saying he may meet the president on February 1.