PDI-P to name day-to-day leader

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