President Joko Widodo has responded humbly to Jusuf Kalla's claims of launching his national political career. Jokowi described himself as nobody, just a villager. The exchange comes amid a polemic involving both figures.
During a press conference at his home on Jalan Brawijaya in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, Jusuf Kalla, former Vice President for terms 10 and 12, recounted his role in supporting Joko Widodo.
"Who brought Jokowi to Jakarta? I brought him from Solo to become governor. I did," JK said, as quoted on April 19, 2026. He said he convinced PDIP chair Megawati Soekarnoputri by telling her, "Ibu, ini ada calon baik orang PDIP." JK also claimed Jokowi visited his home to express thanks after winning the DKI Jakarta gubernatorial election.
JK added that the governor position paved the way to the presidency. "Jokowi became president because of me. Without being governor, how could he become president?" he said. He rejected notions of opposing Jokowi, stating firmly, "Did I accuse Pak Jokowi? No? Did I oppose Pak Jokowi? No."
In response, Jokowi told reporters on Monday, April 20, 2026, "Yes, I'm nobody, just a villager."
