It is obvious now that Megawati Soekarnoputri and Jusuf Kalla, the defeated candidates in July's presidential election, are trying to force Indonesia to hold an election rerun. They are determined not to accept the results announced by the General Elections Commission (KPU), claiming massive fraud was behind incumbent President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono winning 60 percent of the nationwide vote.
But Megawati, Kalla and their running mates, former generals Prabowo Subianto and Wiranto respectively, are horribly mistaken if they believe the public are behind them.
Your comments:
As an American, I hesitate to be perceived as interfering in Indonesian domestic politics, but as a Democrat in the US and a strong supporter of President Obama I would like to offer the following thoughts.
By their very nature, unfortunately there will always be disenfranchised voters, either through spoiled ballots, clerical or other errors.
It is a testament to your country's evolution as a true democracy that your elections have resulted in such a broad participation by your citizens in what can only be one of the most challenging physical and logistical efforts on the planet. It is true that we Americans rejoice in your re-election of President Yudhoyono for several reasons.
The emergence of Indonesia as a force for stability in SE Asia as well as a powerful example to the Muslim world of the power of democracy to make people more prosperous cannot be overstated and the economic powerhouse Indonesia is set to become is a very exciting prospect.
The efficient and professional management of your country's finances and resources is likely to accelerate with your election of VP Boediono as well. We wish you ongoing good fortune and will proudly watch President Obama greet President Yudhoyono in November when he visits.
Drew Connolly
NJ, US
Oh please, those president wannabes. Do they realize how much it costs to hold a re-election? How much time will it waste? Get it over with already. Grow up oldies. There are so many more issues in this country that they could be assisting with other than constantly fighting for that president chair.
By acting up like this we get a pretty good idea of how their minds work. What are they actually aiming for? A chance to do something for the country or just a selfish quest for fame and the presidency. God knows you don't need to be a president to help your ruined country.
Agnes B.
Jakarta
I am from Singapore and I really respect SBY. He definitely appears to have been the best choice compared to the other two candidates. Hopefully he can deliver what he promised and support the people of Indonesia, and not forget the cabinet.
During his 2nd term, hopefully he will identify a potential person who can be groomed for the future presidency position so as to continue his good work boosting the prosperity of the country.
What was Jusuf Kalla thinking by getting Wiranto as a running candidate? Was he trying really hard not to be elected or was he just too "smart" for himself. But I do like his mustache, looks familiar.
Joe G
Singapore
If only the millions of voters who were unable to cast a ballot were registered properly, things would have been different, particularly for Megawati. I am not a Megawati supporter, but I respect her.
Suhendri
Singapore
Thanks for your opinions which reflect the reality and opinion of the general public in Indonesia. Foreign leaders and media have also stated that Indonesia's presidential election was largely free and fair.
Marpaung Darwin
Jakarta
