'A good leader must not bring more problems'

Many youths believe that the country's condition will improve with a good leader. They are concerned about the seemingly poor quality of today's leaders and share their criteria for an ideal leader with The Jakarta Post.

Boni, 16, is a student of a private senior high school in Kebayoran, South Jakarta. He lives in Kemang, South Jakarta:

A good leader is someone who can understand all citizens' needs and is open to public criticism.

For instance, if many people stage demonstrations, the leader should take notice and try to accommodate their demands.

But our leaders now tend to ignore public-outcry. They contend that their policies are flawless, despite their critics.

In our country, before a president is elected, candidates make promises to the people to gain their support. But when the president is elected those promises quickly fade away.

A good leader must be able to improve the already complex situation in this country and not contribute to our problems!

Booboo, 15, is a student of a private senior high school in Menteng, Central Jakarta. He lives on Jl. Radio, South Jakarta:

I hope this country will have a leader who is honest, fair and wise. These characteristics will help the leader to curb wrongdoings and side with the people.

It is evident that many leaders have halfheartedly implemented regulations and sometimes violated them themselves.

Many leaders have a poor attitude and are greedy. That's the reason why Indonesia is known as a corrupt country.

A good leader must have a clear mission in order to boost the people's welfare. That's most crucial.

Nelly, 28, is an English instructor with a private English course in Central Jakarta. She resides in Cilandak, South Jakarta:

I think this country will be far better if managed by an attentive, fair and sensitive leader. A good leader must not only listen to the people's problems but also find solutions. In addition, a good leader must be optimistic in dealing with such extensive problems.

At present, our country's leaders only listen to a certain class of citizen and deafen their ears to public criticism. They do nothing for the people.

It's hard to find an ideal leader, so many top officials have been halfhearted in governing the country.

I don't expect that the upcoming general elections will result in good leadership.

-- Leo Wahyudi S.