Presidential dialog<\/p>\n
In contrast to the earlier report on the idea of organizing a
\npresidential debate before the public -- for the necessary
\nguidelines reportedly were being drafted, as divulged by the
\nGeneral Elections Commission (KPU) -- the latest news that ensued
\nfrom KPU was that the presentation of the campaign would not take
\nthe form of a debate, but rather that of a "sedate" dialog (The
\nJakarta Post, June 4).<\/p>\n
The difference between the two concepts should be conspicuous,
\nin that a debate underscores the opposite sides' skills in an
\nexchange of reasoned arguments, while dialog more represents an
\ninterchange of ideas, seeking mutual understanding and harmony
\namong the contestants.<\/p>\n
Since this will the first presidential election determined by
\nthe direct suffrage of the people since the country's
\nindependence, the KPU rightly opted for a more composed
\nencounter. This dialog would also be free from potential
\nembarrassment, agitation or boisterousness sparked by fiery or
\nunbridled questions from the audience, that a debate might
\nentail.<\/p>\n
It's true that under the Presidential Election Law No. 23\/2003
\nas set out in Article 36, debates among presidential candidates
\ncan be organized. But, under the given circumstances, the KPU's
\ncompetence in deciding its weighted option should reasonably
\nprevail.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, the KPU will bear ultimate responsibility
\nin selecting a top-qualified four-member panel. In this respect,
\nthe public keenly hopes the KPU will exercise insightful caution
\nso as to select panel members who are publicly renowned for their
\nintegrity and independence -- free from any partisan links or
\nallegiance.<\/p>\n
It is heartening to hear that the most defining event, which
\nis the presidential dialog, will be held on June 30 and July 1 at
\nHotel Borobudur, Jakarta, and will be televised by TVRI and other
\nstations.<\/p>\n
S. SUHAEDI
\nJakarta<\/p>",
"url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/presidential-dialog-1447893297",
"image": ""
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"sponsor": "Okusi Associates",
"sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com"
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