Joko Widodo Becomes President of Indonesia in 2014

Name: Joko Widodo Becomes President of Indonesia in 2014
Start: 1961-10-20
Location: Unspecified

The Historic Election of Joko Widodo

Joko Widodo’s Rise to Prominence

In the lead-up to the 2014 presidential elections, Joko Widodo, often called Jokowi, emerged as a prominent candidate. Before this, he served as the Governor of Jakarta, where he gained recognition for his approachable governance style and emphasis on infrastructure development. His background as a furniture businessman also established an image of a down-to-earth leader who was relatable to the common people.

The 2014 Presidential Campaign

As the elections approached, Jokowi faced a tough opponent in Prabowo Subianto. Jokowi’s campaign was marked by his slogan, "#JokowiMintaKerja" which translates to “Jokowi asks for work." This phrase resonated with many Indonesians who were frustrated by unemployment and poverty. His charismatic style and promises of clean governance and economic reform struck a chord with voters.

Inauguration and Early Challenges

Inauguration Day: October 20, 2014

On October 20, 2014, Joko Widodo was officially sworn in as the seventh president of Indonesia. His inauguration signified hope for many citizens who believed in his vision for a "Global Maritime Fulcrum" which aimed to bolster Indonesia's position as a maritime power. However, he was immediately faced with challenges including corruption, economic fluctuations, and bureaucratic inertia from the previous administration.

Jokowi’s Early Policies

In his initial months, Jokowi focused on revitalizing the economy through infrastructure projects, making healthcare more accessible, and reducing the bureaucratic backlog. His commitment to transparency and combating corruption was evident as he worked closely with the Corruption Eradication Commission to ensure accountability within his administration.

Fun Fact

Jokowi’s Unique Background

Interestingly, Joko Widodo is the first Indonesian president not originating from the military or elite political background. His humble beginnings and rise from a furniture seller to the presidency is a remarkable testament to Indonesia's democratic process.