Debating the debate<\/p>\n
Some parts of the bill on general elections can be considered
\nquite sensitive or controversial, but nonetheless necessary,
\nwhile there are other bits being debated that are virtually
\nmeaningless and should be dropped altogether.<\/p>\n
Among the articles which need serious attention are those on
\nthe public debates for presidential candidates, as well as the
\none barring government officials from participating in election
\ncampaigns. These two parts, in addition to the less important
\nones, have forced the delay in the passing of the bill into law.<\/p>\n
The presidential candidate debates are being rejected only by
\nthe Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan).<\/p>\n
The PDI Perjuangan objection, whether it is stated or not, is
\nquite obviously related to their 2004 candidate, President
\nMegawati Soekarnoputri, and her apparent aversion to public
\nspeaking and debating.<\/p>\n
From the past to the present, Mega has never been accustomed
\nto having an open dialog, much less a debate. Mega, who is
\nconsidered to be quite competent in her own way by her
\nsupporters, has always regarded silence as the best way to manage
\nher government.<\/p>\n
A leader, if it is passed, will now have to speak frequently,
\nhold dialogs and offer clear explanations on a range of issues.<\/p>\n
The party or candidate who rejects such a debate should not
\nget any support from the people.<\/p>\n
-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta<\/p>\n
Garuda pilot's strike<\/p>\n
We are relieved to learn that the pilots of the Indonesian
\nflag carrier, Garuda, have canceled their plan to go on strike.
\nWe appreciate the decision of the pilots, who are grouped in the
\nGaruda Pilots Association. Each job must have a public service
\nfunction.<\/p>\n
This function is extremely vital for Garuda Indonesia.
\nImagine if Garuda flights stopped due to the strike. The
\nmobility of passengers who fly for government and business trips
\nwould come to a halt.<\/p>\n
There would not only be material losses but other losses as
\nwell.<\/p>\n
How can it be possible for such a vital group of people
\nexercise its right to stage a strike? It would only worsen its
\npublic service.<\/p>\n
Everybody should be expected to uphold the public interest.<\/p>\n
-- Kompas, Jakarta<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/debating-the-debate-1447899208", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }