Presidential debates

Presidential debates

From Kompas

Many people have recently voiced their opinions on the ongoing
debates among presidential hopefuls. Some see the necessity of
the debates, while others do not agree with them.

I think that the nonparticipation of Megawati Soekarnoputri
and Sultan Hamengkubuwono in the debates is due to their view
that the debates are not an absolute requirement for future
leaders.

Although they have not participated in the debates, if the
people want them to be the nation's leader, they will assume the
position.

Usually, an overly vocal candidate will forget his promises
once he has been elected.

An example of this was seen among some members of the 1966
generation, who once they gained prominent positions did not take
the people's interests to heart. Instead, they sided with the New
Order regime.

Today, some of our future leaders have shown they are unable
to distribute the social safety net fund. There are indeed many
clever people, but as soon as they have to distribute things they
lose their consistency.

In my opinion, a leader for Indonesia must be strict,
dignified, intelligent and wise. He will certainly be loved by
the people. The country will then be prosperous and ready to face
any challenge. Being merely vocal serves no purpose.

SOEHARTONO

Padang, West Sumatra