Envoy tips scholar for president

JAKARTA (JP): Is the United States tipping Muslim scholar Nurcholish Madjid to become Indonesia's next president?

Perhaps not, but U.S. Ambassador Stapleton J. Roy has at least recognized that Nurcholish has the potential to lead the country.

"The esteemed would-be president, Nurcholish Madjid," Roy quipped in a speech when he presented several translated American books to the National Library on Monday.

Several renowned public figures present burst into laughter and applauded. They included former Indonesian ambassador to the U.S. Lt. Gen (ret) Hasnan Habib, former finance minister Mar'ie Muhammad, rights activists Karlina Leksono and Munir and scholar Mohamad Sobary.

A visibly embarrassed Nurcholish grinned, Antara reported.

Roy explained that names of potential presidential candidates, including Nurcholish, were circulating, outlining their respective capabilities.

Many people consider Nurcholish is the dark horse in the race dominated by the names of Amien Rais, Gen. Wiranto, Megawati Soekarnoputri, B.J. Habibie and Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono.

Roy described how the world was looking to the result of the June 7 general election. "We are awaiting for the elected legislature and president."

Nurcholish refused comment on the matter.

Roy presented six books translated from the English: Dimensi Publik Politik Luar Negeri by David D. Newson; Hak Asasi Manusia Sebuah Pengantar by George Clack and Kathleen Hug; Korupsi dan Ekonomi Dunia by Kimberly Ann Elliott; Penyelewengan Aparat Pemerintah by Sheldon S. Steinberg and David T. Austern; Panduan Pemberitaan Lingkungan Hidup by Bernadette West, Peter M Sandina and Michael R. Grenberg; Iman dan Sejarah dalam Peradaban Islam by Marshal G.S. Hodgson. (aan)