PDI-P to name day-to-day leader

JAKARTA: The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) appears likely to appoint someone to take over the daily leadership of the party from President Megawati Soekarnoputri.

The move is seen as being aimed at helping the President deal with the daily tasks of running a major political party.

The head of PDI Perjuangan's development and research center, Kwik Kian Gie, said on Thursday Megawati had not rejected the proposal and had pledged to find the right person.

"Some people have proposed Taufik Kiemas (for the post). But it is Megawati's prerogative," Kwik said, referring to Megawati's husband.

Kwik said a separation between Megawati's duties with the party and the government was needed to reduce the daily burden on the President.

Another party figure, Sukowaluyo Mintorahardjo, said earlier the day-to-day activities of the party required special attention, particularly ahead of the 2004 legislative elections.

Like the chairs of other political parties, Megawati declined to hand over her post in the party when she was elected vice president in 1999 and appointed president in 2001. -- JP