Susilo's character

Susilo's character

From Republika

Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, former coordinating minister for political, social and security affairs, following a meeting with the Supreme Advisory Council on June 26, said, when asked to comment on the future office of the vice president, that it was unethical to discuss the matter while the positions of president and vice president were occupied. Even when asked what he thought about his likely nomination as vice president, he only said that many of the nation's best citizens had integrity, capability and wide popular support.

On the one hand, Susilo's attitude implies that he doesn't want to create tension ahead of this year's special session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), because any remark will invite comments from various circles of society which may lower his credibility as a vice presidential candidate. On the other hand, it signifies his refusal to bypass the authority of the factions in the House of Representatives/MPR to designate vice presidential nominees at the MPR special session.

Susilo's sympathetic character and great finesse makes him a figure deserving high esteem. One has hardly ever heard of any biasness in his comments on other leaders or dignitaries, let alone condemnations. As the President relieved him of his ministerial post, not a single word from him offended the chief executive, and even when he was offered the office of interior minister or communications minister, he declined it with elegance and full objectivity. It's this stance and personality that we expect from a leader. Susilo has earned the reputation as a master who remains modest with maturity.

RITA LESTARI

Palembang, South Sumatra