The next vice president

From Koran Tempo

Indonesia's fifth president has been sworn in. What's now interesting is the position of vice president left vacant by Megawati. The "stock exchange" of candidates offers several names such as Akbar Tandjung, Wiranto, Hamzah Haz, Yusril Ihza Mahendra and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

I advise new President to exercise utmost caution in selecting the next vice president so that both can cooperate and work hand in hand to realize the development of the nation, rather than "opposing and toppling" each other.

The recent disharmony in the relationship between the former president and his vice president is one of the reasons why the government could not execute its actions smoothly and instead of steering Indonesia out of the crisis, it caused the nation to be drawn deeper into crisis.

This predicament shows that the people have been treated as mere spectators of politician's brawls in the legislature, which in the process forgot that it was the people who gave them the mandate for bringing people prosperity and improved welfare.

I suggest that Megawati appoint a neutral vice president, one who has not been contaminated by certain political interests and will thus be better able to concentrate on related activities.

It is further suggested that a military figure would be the appropriate partner, as military discipline is commendable and the new government is fully aware of the need of support from the military. However, proper care should be taken so that the military is not overly involved or active in politics.

Part of society is in favor of Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono being the vice president, as he is "clean" and has a high degree of nationalism and intelligence -- plus he is well accepted by religious circles, the political elite as well as the international community.

The possible added value from such a partnership is a positive domestic and international response, which could be one important factor to help us end the current crisis and restore the national economy.

UCOK SINAMBELA

Jakarta