President should be pluralistic

President should be pluralistic

From Republika

In his recent article published in Republika, Haedar Nashir
touched on the cultural burden of a devout Muslim as president.
In fact, it is not only a pious leader that would be subject to
such a burden, but also the members of particular professions.

The presidential candidates that have emerged so far comprise
scientists, servicemen, ulemas, artists and other professionals.
A person's profession greatly influences his character and
attitudes.

Therefore, the public's worries about what may happen if the
president is a devout Muslim leader, an actor, or a soldier
should be transparently explained by psychologists and
sociologists.

The important thing is to avoid the domination of any
profession or belief system. A presidential hopeful should be
free from any such domination and appreciate the freedom of
others, while always listening to the suggestions, views and
thoughts of other people.

SUHELMI NURUSMAN
Jakarta