Presidential dialog

In contrast to the earlier report on the idea of organizing a presidential debate before the public -- for the necessary guidelines reportedly were being drafted, as divulged by the General Elections Commission (KPU) -- the latest news that ensued from KPU was that the presentation of the campaign would not take the form of a debate, but rather that of a "sedate" dialog (The Jakarta Post, June 4).

The difference between the two concepts should be conspicuous, in that a debate underscores the opposite sides' skills in an exchange of reasoned arguments, while dialog more represents an interchange of ideas, seeking mutual understanding and harmony among the contestants.

Since this will the first presidential election determined by the direct suffrage of the people since the country's independence, the KPU rightly opted for a more composed encounter. This dialog would also be free from potential embarrassment, agitation or boisterousness sparked by fiery or unbridled questions from the audience, that a debate might entail.

It's true that under the Presidential Election Law No. 23/2003 as set out in Article 36, debates among presidential candidates can be organized. But, under the given circumstances, the KPU's competence in deciding its weighted option should reasonably prevail.

Meanwhile, the KPU will bear ultimate responsibility in selecting a top-qualified four-member panel. In this respect, the public keenly hopes the KPU will exercise insightful caution so as to select panel members who are publicly renowned for their integrity and independence -- free from any partisan links or allegiance.

It is heartening to hear that the most defining event, which is the presidential dialog, will be held on June 30 and July 1 at Hotel Borobudur, Jakarta, and will be televised by TVRI and other stations.

S. SUHAEDI Jakarta