In an official statement, both emphasized the importance of cross-party cooperation to bring NTT to a better future.
Melki Laka Lena: “We Need All Parties, Criticism, and Bitter Coffee for NTT”
Melki Laka Lena, the elected Governor, expressed his gratitude to the KPU, Bawaslu, Forkopimda, and the people of NTT for the peaceful implementation of the Pilkada. He also appreciated the other candidates, including SPK, Ansi, Jane, and Andre Garu, for the healthy competition during the Pilkada.
“We are tasked as an orchestra that harmonizes all elements in NTT and outside NTT. We ask for support, criticism, and suggestions from various parties, including the press and academics. We also need bitter criticism like coffee so that we can manage NTT better,” said Melki.
He also emphasized his commitment to move quickly after being inaugurated. “Hopefully on the first day of the inauguration, we can immediately work for NTT. However, regarding the inauguration, we are still waiting for the central government’s decision,” he added.
Johni Asadoma: “Let’s Unite to Build NTT”
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor-elect Johni Asadoma invited all NTT people to forget political differences and unite for the progress of the region.
“We are grateful that the Pilkada went smoothly thanks to the democratic awareness of the NTT community. We thank the KPU, Bawaslu, the supporting parties, supporters, and all the people of NTT,” said Johni.
He also reminded of global challenges, such as the conflict in the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine war, which could impact the Indonesian and NTT economies. However, he remains optimistic about the great potential that NTT has.
“Moving forward, we will work hard to fulfill our campaign promises and overcome the challenges that exist. Let’s build NTT together with the spirit of unity and prayer,” he concluded. (*/nttsatu)