Newsmakers 2005

Each year brings hope, sorrow, shock and happiness. The stories of everyday life that make headlines at this newspaper are stories of people who go through enduring times -- some unavoidable, others by their own doing. While individuals can be singled out as newsmakers, the courage of the Indonesian people to embark on a celebration of democracy through regional elections, and the fortitude of survivors of the second Bali bombings, are acts of valor deserving of distinction.

Photo A: Newsmakers

JP/ID Nugroho

GRASSROOTS DEMOCRACY: People across the country this year began the novel process of local elections. A new tradition that will hopefully bring greater accountability to local administrations at all levels. Seen here is a woman casting her vote in the Banyuwangi regental election in East Java.

Photo B: Newsmakers

JP/Indra Harsaputra ONE DOWN: A man looks at the crossed-out mug shot of the late Azahari bin Husin after the notorious bombmaker was killed during a police raid in East Java. With the demise of the bombmaker, the nationwide hunt now turns to his compatriot Noordin M. Top.

Photo D&C: Newsmakers

JP/Mulkan Salmona

THOSE WE LOST: Tragedy and loss were felt by many in 2005. In August the nation lost one of its most respected advocates of pluralism and tolerance when Nurcholish Madjid (photo left) died at the age of 66. Meanwhile friends and family (photo right) visit one of the buildings bombed in the second attack on Bali.

Photo E: Newsmakers

JP/Arief Suhardiman

OLD AND NEW: The much anticipated "mini" Cabinet reshuffle occurred in December as President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono revamped his economics team.

Photo F: Newsmakers

JP/R. Berto Wedhatama

FAITH SHAKEN: High expectations are being placed on the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to bring high-profile cases to court. But the public was astounded when it was revealed that former rights activist Mulyana W. Kusumah was implicated in a corruption scandal during his work at the General Elections Commission.