People impressed by honesty

From Suara Karya

The provisional results of the presidential election on July 5, show that extraordinary campaign teams were not necessary to win. What counted was honesty, and the honesty of a candidate was what encouraged people to vote for them.

A candidate should not feel too worried about any efforts made by the campaign teams of their rivals. People know who they will elect, and will not be easily influenced. They will simply listen to their own consciences.

The people know what is true and what is not. They have become more politically mature.

Now that we are heading for the second round of the presidential election, it is only proper that, during the campaign period, the candidates should debate and present their programs -- as stipulated by the law -- while refraining from personal attacks.

Remember, a presidential candidate may be disqualified for violating the election law. Besides which, the people will never vote for a candidate who insults another candidate.

Most importantly, Indonesians need a wise leader, one that can maintain national unity, and lift up the country to hold a truly dignified position in the international arena.

MARKUS SAMAWI Bekasi, West Java