Wisdom, discretion and health needed

In this modern era the social status for both men and women is no longer really a debatable issue. If this country is to be truly democratic, a woman should have every right to be elected president through popular vote and all of us should accept it. To deny a woman the right to become president will leave this country lagging behind the rest of the world by several centuries.

In my opinion, a president does not necessarily have to be intellectually brilliant in all fields, as such a person will never exist. I set three requirements only that should be fulfilled by a presidential candidate. He, or she, should have wisdom, discretion and be physically and mentally healthy. Wisdom will direct the chosen man or woman to use their conscience, heart and maintain dignity; discretion provides him, or her, with the ability to distinguish good from bad; and physical and mental health is needed in order that one may have the ability to perform one's duties well.

Remember when Soeharto took over the lead of the nation from Sukarno some 33 years ago. Many circles were doubtful of Soeharto's capacity to hold the presidency, but he proved that he did have the capability to rule this nation of 200 million for over 30 years, apart from his shortcomings as we have all been made aware of.

Let's praise God for His blessing that we have successfully completed the national general election without any significant disturbance and in a fair and orderly manner. Our next hurdle is the General Session of the People's Consultative Assembly when the next President and Vice President will be chosen. I hope everything will go undisturbed, and every legislator has the tolerance and understanding in our quest for a new Indonesia that will be crowned with glory.

ALOYSIUS HARYONO

Jakarta