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strong>March 25, Online

Political experts are divided in their opinions on Surakarta Mayor Joko Widodo’s bid to run for governor of Jakarta.

Siti Zuhroh from the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) says Joko’s move to run in Jakarta governor race could be construed as opportunistic.

“He has sworn that he would fulfill his duties as Surakarta mayor until the end of his term. Thus, his move to participate in the Jakarta governor’s race could prove to be a major blunder in his career,” Siti said.

Your comments:

Actually, I like a leader who doesn’t have big mouth and has a proven track record, such as Jokowi. Meanwhile, looking at the incumbent leader of Jakarta, I have to ask what has he done for Jakarta? Nothing, even though he claims to be an expert on Jakarta.
Pirin
Jakarta

Surakarta Mayor Joko Widodo is the kind of leader that many of us Indonesians have hoped and prayed for. He seems to have courage, integrity, honesty, wisdom, and humility — all important characteristics that are a must for a genuine leader to have.

Also, Joko Widodo appears to be sincerely dedicated to improving the welfare of the rakyat kecil, the common people.

So far, his daring, stern and decisive action in defending what is just and right have helped countless Surakartans and other Indonesians, who had lost faith in their so-called “leaders”, cease to be suspicious, and actually learn to put their trust in him.

And public trust is an extremely important thing to have. Once a politician has gained the public’s trust, they should do their utmost avoid letting their constituents down.

The leaders of the PDI-P (the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle), to which Joko Widodo belongs, understandably want him to run for governor, as it seems Joko Widodo is almost the only credible person this particular party has.

Bapak Joko Widodo, by running for Jakarta governor, in accordance with the wishes of your party’s leaders, you may eventually discover that you have bitten off more than you can chew, and perhaps you will lose the trust of the people.

Why don’t you follow the whispers and guidance of your own heart, and remain true to your promise to Surakartans?
Tami Koestomo
Bogor, West Java

Since their performance is all bad, there is no difference between opportunists and non-opportunists.

So, the most urgent topic is not whether the next governor of Jakarta is an opportunist or not, but whether or not they can deliver successful policies to address the city’s problems.
David Gabriel
Jakarta