REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- Political observer at Paramadina University, Toto Sugiarto said the incumbent Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and Gerindra Party chairman Prabowo Subianto as presidential candidates in 2019 election needed running mates from Islamic political circle. He assessed both of them were perceived by the public as figures from nationalist circle.

"In public perception, Prabowo is a nationalist figure, similar to Jokowi, which means they have to find politician with Islamic background as running mates," said Toto on Monday (March 19).

According to Toto, the figure could be found in the Islamic organizations such as Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah and Islamic party, namely Prosperous Justice Party (PKS). Toto said Islamic figures will bring a positive impact to increase mass support in 2019 presidential election. 

Toto explained different mass base will certainly provide benefits for Prabowo or Jokowi. "It gives positive value because the pond is different from Prabowo and Jokowi. With different pattern, the vote will be bigger, Toto explained.

Therefore, Toto said it would be not appropriate if Jokowi chose Puan Maharani as his running mate. Puan came from the same pond with Jokowi. "

"If Jokowi chose Puan, it won't be wise because their ponds are same. I think Jokowi and Prabowo will pair themselves with Islamic figures, if they are smart, Toto added.

Toto said, in that condition, Islamic based political parties will get the main attention in order to boost the support of the masses. Taking Islamic figures will ease the move of existing political machine to raise electability. "It is better than attracting figures outside political parties," he explained.

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