PKS Agrees with Surya Paloh on Sporting Elections: Above Rules Lie Ethics and Honesty

The Chairman of the PKS Central Executive Board, Mardani Ali Sera, has agreed with NasDem Party Chairman Surya Paloh’s statement that he does not mind the model of the 2029 elections, as long as they are conducted in a sporting manner. Mardani described Surya Paloh as a wise figure. “Mr. SP is a wise person. He has experienced many ups and downs in the political world,” Mardani told reporters on Friday. Mardani believes that Paloh’s opinion carries a deep meaning about integrity, honesty, and maturity in politics. He stated that such great-minded individuals are needed to lead the nation towards a Golden Indonesia 2045. “Mr. SP’s statement serves as a reminder to everyone that above rules, there is morality, ethics, and honesty,” he said. Surya Paloh was responding to the ongoing discussion of the Election Bill. He admitted he did not mind whatever electoral model or system is chosen for the future, as long as the competition is conducted in a sporting manner. According to Paloh, the most important aspect of the Election Bill currently under discussion is its ability to improve the quality of the election implementation itself. He also expressed hope that the 2029 elections would be more democratic. “I think the most important thing is how this election can further improve the quality of the election itself. That is the main point. It is not just about the formal legal requirement that we hold an election, but the essence we gain from this election is to rebuild a stronger democratic foundation in this country,” Paloh told reporters at the Mercure Hotel in Ancol, North Jakarta, on Wednesday. He also stressed the importance of upholding the value of sportsmanship. According to Paloh, a political competition would be in vain if it is not conducted sportingly by both the participants and the organisers. “This is where I always remind everyone of one thing we cannot take for granted, namely the sportsmanship of the election participants and organisers. So, we are ready for any kind of contest in the competition. However, what is the point of the competition if we do not respect the values of sportsmanship that should be upheld?” Paloh said.