Ikang wants stage name on ballot paper

Ikang Fauzi

JAKARTA: Rocker-turned-politician Ikang Fawzi says he would prefer to use his stage name on the election ballot paper rather than his photograph.

"I don't mind if there is no photograph (on the ballot paper), although people might know me better by face. (But) I think we must stick to the regulations issued by the KPU (the General Election Commission)," Ikang was quoted as saying by detik.com on Friday.

Ikang has been nominated by the National Mandate Party (PAN) for the 2009 legislative election to represent Lebak and Pandeglang, both of Banten province.

He says the KPU should put both the real names and the stage names of celebrities running in the 2009 legislative election.

"There is no reason my popular name cannot be added (after my name) in brackets (on the ballot paper)," says the 48-year-old.

Ikang, who is also a developer, says he has been campaigning over the last three months.

"Ever since my name was mentioned as a possible candidate, I have been approaching my constituents. Insya Allah (God willing), there will be no problem if my photograph is not shown on the ballot paper," he says. -- JP