Megawati bans voting in session to endorse top cop candidate

Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) will avoid a vote to decide whether the House of Representatives approves the candidacy of Comr. Gen. Timur Pradopo as the National Police chief or not.

The party’s paramount leader Megawati Soekarnoputri said on Friday voting would only divide the country if it concerned selection of important state officials.

"Voting is unethical to determine a crucial post like the police chief position. Voting will only divide the country," she told a press conference at the House on Friday.

Megawati added that the interview of the national police chief candidate should be conducted in the most efficient manner.

"Because we cannot let the police be without a leader," she said.

If Timur passes the House’s test, he will replace Gen. Bambang Hendarso Danuri, who will retire on Oct. 31.