Jimly quits MK for personal reasons

Desy Nurhayati ,  The Jakarta Post ,  Jakarta   |  Wed, 10/08/2008 10:30 AM  |  National

Constitutional Court justice Jimly Asshiddiqie has tendered his resignation from the institution he once led amid speculation he will run for presidency in the 2009 election.

Jimly said Tuesday he opted to call it quits due to "psychological" tensions that had jeopardized his relations with the other eight justices and all court officials.

However, he dismissed reports his resignation was sparked by internal conflicts within the court or his bid for presidency.

"I think this is the right time for me to leave, in the hope that it will help the court chief, the other judges and all the court officials conduct their duties with ease," Jimly told a press conference at the presidential office.

Jimly will remain in his role at the court until November to give the House of Representatives time to select his replacement.

Court chief Mahfud MD, deputy chief Mukhtie Fajar and Jimly held talks with President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Tuesday regarding Jimly's resignation.

Jimly, who was the court's chief justice for two consecutive three-year tenures between 2003 and 2008, lost his quest for a third term to Mahfud last month.

Jimly said his resignation would ease tensions at the court.

Jimly, a constitutional law professor, said he had become a symbol of the court due to his influence and his long tenure, which began in 2003 when the court was established.

He said he believed the nine-member court could perform without him.

Mahfud denied reports that internal squabbling had forced Jimly out.

"Pak Jimly considers his contribution to the court during these past years to be sufficient. There is no problem between us," Mahfud said.

Jimly has been widely touted as a potential candidate to contest the presidential election. He was once reportedly approached by an Islamic-based party.

"Someone who will contest the presidential election needs support from one or more political parties. We do not even know yet which parties will be allowed to nominate candidates. The presidential bill has not even been endorsed. Just leave it to each party to decide who it wishes to nominate," Jimly said.

He said the President had acknowledged his decision to resign and had thanked him for his contribution to the court.

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