The election and prices

The General Election is undoubtedly important for the nation; however, it does not surpass everything. Farmers must continue to tend their land, fishermen must fish and vendors continue their daily activities. The state administration, too, should run as normal. The President, members of the Cabinet and the House should not become lazy as their terms of office will soon end.

The election must not be used to excuse anything that affects people's normal lives, which are also part of democracy.

The election must be a success, without disrupting the economic and financial sectors.

The rupiah should get stronger and prices should not be hiked. Reports have said that supplies of staple foods have been disrupted.

According to chairman of the Association of Food and Beverage Producers Thomas Darmawan, the increase in the price of commodities was due to a disruption to their distribution to the capital city.

The weakening rupiah is also worrying. A weak rupiah will cause a hike in the price of commodities, especially imported goods.

The election should be a source of hope, not disaster.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta