Democratic Party politicians stress that Golkar Party chairman Aburizal Bakrie is not authorized to summon ministers, despite his recent appointment as the acting chairman of the pro-government coalition parties.
"Ministers answer only to the President, outsiders cannot interfere," a senior Democratic Party politician, Marzuki Alie, told reporters in Jakarta on Friday.
"Ethically speaking, the government is led by the President. So, all communications must be done under the President's order," he added.
Separately, Democratic Party secretary-general Amir Syamsuddin said Aburizal could only meet with ministers for coordination purposes, not to give orders or influence any of their policy.
Your comments:
One thing is certain, sadly: Indonesia's standing and reputation is going down as Sri Mulyani leaves the scene, and Bakrie takes center stage.
Talk about shooting oneself in the foot! Please, can those in power please think about the greater good and try to improve the lot of the majority of Indonesians.
Tony
Singapore
I have three comments:
This post-election arrangement came when SBY's administration came under attack related to the Century gate case, when the Democrats were vulnerable to compromise.
Any work arrangements should have been established before the election; there is an appearance of acquiescing.
The function of this new group should be limited to just advising and not giving consent on policy formulation.
That the Democrats continue to be the strongest draw of power and support lie not in the power-sharing arrangement, but in their aggressive pursuit of the cleanest and most honest government possible. This "moral authority" is irresistible in a deeply corrupt society.
James Waworoendeng
California
Aburizal Bakrie's authority to summon ministers is rather an insinuation of commentators or political parties.
There is no such indication from the President that he is delegating his authority to Aburizal.
We all know Indonesia applies a presidential administration system where ministers are accountable only to the president. If we find there is a minister willing to follow Aburizal's instructions, he should not be a minister.
Anybody may claim whatever they want, as long as it does not disturb other interests.
His claim depends on the acknowledgment of other people. It may be that his claim is true, or he is just dreaming.
Suri Adnyana
Bekasi, West Java
