Mega says no to presidential debate

JAKARTA (JP): Popular politician Megawati Soekarnoputri has turned down an invitation to participate in a presidential debate, saying the event was a breach of oriental culture.

The chief and presidential candidate of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) also cited the lack of a law that regulated such a debate, according to student organizers of the April 27 event.

Her deputy, Haryanto Taslam, was reported by Antara as telling chief organizer Agus Haryadi of Forum Salemba "the event is not in line with oriental culture and because there is no law regulating such a debate".

Five other presidential hopefuls have confirmed their participation in the debate, which will cover issues of politics, economics, security and defense.

They are Amien Rais of the National Mandate Party (PAN), Yusril Ihza Mahendra of the Crescent Star Party (PBB), Didin Hafidhuddin of the Justice Party (PK), Sri Bintang Pamungkas of the Indonesian Democratic Union Party (PUDI) and Budiman Sudjatmiko of the Democratic People's Party (PRD).

Budiman is still in jail for subversive activities during New Order regime, and it was not clear how he would take part in the debate.

Agus was quoted by Antara as saying he was hoping that Megawati would eventually relent and take part. "We are still trying to meet with Megawati in person," he said.

Amien Rais was among a few who have repeatedly called for a debate among presidential hopefuls, in order to educate the public about their capabilities.

Several other potentially strong political parties, namely Golkar, the National Awakening Party and the United Development Party, have yet to name their presidential candidates and have not confirmed their participation in the debate.

The debate, titled "Revealing the Vision and Mission of Indonesia's Presidential Candidates", is expected to be attended by student representatives throughout the country and by community figures.

The debate is meant to serve as public political education. Participants are expected to set examples to their constituents on how to manage differences.

Forum Salemba is a student organization which enjoys wide support of University of Indonesia students and other university students. (01)