In what felt like the longest governor race in Jakarta's history, everything seemed to get sucked into a political blackhole of infighting and mudslinging. From bread being accused of being anti-Islam to what candidates eat on election day.The city, and nation, can finally breath a sigh of relief. Jakartans have elected a new leader, Anies Baswedan and running mate Sandiaga Uno will be leading Jakarta for the next five years. While the vote was one decidedly for change, Anies and Sandi will probably be dealing with the same old problems of flooding and traffic that Jakarta is famous for.After the quick count results were announced, a flood of jokes hit the internet. Many poking fun at both sides, but a vast majority of sentiment had an air of relief to it.
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Many see the Anies-Sandi win as one for the old guard of Indonesian political power, supported by the likes of ex-General and one-time presidential hopeful Parbowo Subianto. Others in the Islamic power base, like FPI leader Habib Rizieq and popular cleric Aa Gym, have been painted as winners in this election.Author @ZaraZettiraZZ supported the win and said that Anies-Sandi need to remember to keep all the massive campaign promises they made during the race. "We need to remind Anies-Sandi about their promise to stop reclamation… you have to keep your promises," tweeted Zara.
With all the rhetoric and division, some have likened this race to the battle between Hillary and Trump in the United States. Supporters of the incumbent Ahok have spoken in similar apocalyptic terms, believing his loss as a huge step back for Jakarta.
"Hearing Anies-Sandi win feels like watching Trump vs Hillary, it's a shame for the people…"But some have come out with a more measured reaction, believing time needs to pass before the real work happens. The Head of Indonesian Ulema Councils Fatwa (GNPF-MUI) appealed to the people of Jakarta to support the new governor and not ask for too much. "If we want the government to do well, we have to support Anies developing Jakarta like we dream of. Stop demanding, be supportive," Bachtiar told Detik.After months of protests and media headlines, it feels like the city can finally move on from this turbulent period. Now we only have to worry about normal things like floods, traffic, a completely non-existent public transportation system, and massive systemic corruption. Actually maybe there is nothing to be relieved about after all, maybe the city was doomed no matter who won.
