Presidential debates disappoint experts

JAKARTA: Experts have said democracy in Indonesia has progressed better compared to its neighboring countries, but recent presidential debates show the nation still have a long way to go to meet the minimum standards.

"The debates were entertaining. The TV screens were split into two; one displayed the debate participants, while the other showed their supporters singing and waving their flags. That is a good thing, but we have to ask, is that what we are really looking for from a debate?" an expert from the University of Indonesia, Firmanzah, told a discussion in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Reform Institute Executive Director Yudi Latif said the General Elections Commission (KPU) was responsible for the lack of substance in the debates.

Economist Aviliani, one of the debate moderators, said the participants had also failed to show their comprehension regarding the substance of an issue.

"For example, they failed to clearly explain their policies on fuel subsidies. They all agreed on subsidies, but they did not discuss the source of the subsidy funds." - JP