Kupang – Based on C1 data collected from the vote counting and tabulation at polling stations across Kupang City, candidate pair number 5, Dr. Christian Widodo and Serena Francis, recorded a remarkable victory with the highest vote share of 36.29%, or 68,853 votes. This victory has attracted public attention, given the tight competition against other candidates with more established political backgrounds.
Dr. Ahmad Atang, a political analyst from Muhammadiyah University Kupang, stated that the victory of this young pair is almost certain, although the official plenary results from the General Elections Commission (KPU) are still awaited. “With these results, candidate pair number 5 will emerge as the winners and serve as the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Kupang for the 2024-2029 term,” Ahmad Atang said in an interview on Thursday (28/11/2024).
According to Ahmad Atang, several key factors contributed to the success of this young pair in the 2024 Kupang mayoral election:
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First, they succeeded in shifting the paradigm of ethnicity-based politics to idea-based politics. Their vision, which focuses on modern, inclusive, and sustainable development for Kupang, became a major draw for the public. Their programs emphasized community participation in every stage of development.
Second, as young figures—Christian (38 years old) and Serena (25 years old)—they successfully engaged the millennial generation, the dominant voter segment in this election. They were seen as a symbol of new hope, especially for the youth facing high unemployment rates in Kupang. Through innovative approaches, they reached young voters via social media and creative campaigns that captured attention.
Third, their proposed ideas and programs were considered realistic and aligned with the community’s needs. Their vision of transforming Kupang into a modern city with equitable infrastructure and economic development received positive responses. They also committed to improving education and healthcare quality, which are urgent priorities for the community.
Finally, their victory also stemmed from the hard work of a solid campaign team and an extensive network of supporters. Their data-driven and consistent campaign strategy was crucial in securing their win. The team successfully built a strong, relatable narrative that resonated with the public, fostering trust.
Ahmad Atang praised Christian Widodo, Serena Francis, and everyone involved in the campaign. “This victory is the result of extraordinary collective synergy,” he emphasized. It highlights the crucial role of collaboration between the campaign team, volunteers, and the community in achieving success.
The victory of candidate pair number 5 stands out as they outperformed seasoned candidates with long political and bureaucratic experience, such as former Mayor Jonas Salean, Jeriko, and Acting Mayor George Hadjoh. As newcomers to politics, Christian and Serena made history by creating a significant wave of change eagerly awaited by the public.
With their new vision, the people of Kupang now place great hope in changes across various sectors. Economic improvement, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment are expected to be the main priorities of their leadership. The public also hopes this pair can foster good communication with all community elements, including groups that have felt marginalized.
Now, the public awaits concrete actions and innovative policies from Christian Widodo and Serena Francis once they are officially inaugurated as the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Kupang for the 2024-2029 term. This victory is not only a historical milestone but also the beginning of a new journey toward a better future for Kupang City. With public support and a strong commitment, this pair is expected to fulfill their campaign promises and bring significant change to Kupang City.
