PDI-P backs presidential spokesman

PDI-P backs presidential spokesman

JAKARTA: The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI
Perjuangan) has joined calls for President Megawati Soekarnoputri
to appoint a spokesperson to explain her policies to the public.

Party deputy chairman Arifin Panigoro said here on Tuesday
that Megawati, who rarely speaks to the public, needed a
spokesperson to avoid misinterpretation of her decisions by
Cabinet ministers.

"There are too many problems arising from the leadership style
of the President. That is why we underline the importance of (the
appointment of) a spokesperson," Arifin said after the party's
weekly meeting chaired by chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri.

He further said that the party would nominated its deputy
secretary-general, Pramono Anung Wibowo, as the presidential
spokesman.

"I believe the President also sees the importance of having a
spokesperson in her administration," said Arifin, adding that
Megawati was considering the idea. --JP