I

t is quite shocking to read that Halida Hatta has resigned from Gerindra. When she joined this political party, the population hailed this political move as a positive sign.

The daughters of former vice president Mohammad Hatta are known to be strong ladies with an impeccable political reputation, having been brought up by their late father.

They are an asset to any political party enhancing its political influence and image.

The struggle for power within Gerindra is quite apparent, whereby strong military authoritarian control still rules, and this is indirectly damaging the party.

When the leadership of Gerindra gets rid of important civilian politicians like Fami Fachruddin, this move damages its political image, and the resignation of Halida Hatta only emphasizes this fact.

This damaging political move, so close to election time, does not look too good for Gerindra, and its political opponents are joyfully clapping their hands.

The leadership of Gerindra has to change drastically if they want to be politically successful, as ousting powerful civilian politicians from the party is utterly damaging.  

The population has had enough of military rule and Gerindra will certainly lose many voters now as a result of the above ousting and resignations.

Lynna van der Zee-Oehmke
Bogor, West Java