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From political ashes, Ahok rises to top corporate job
Jokowi tries to rebuild the career of his close ally. Critic said it's time for Ahok to prove that he's "worthy" of the trust.
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Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (center), formerly known as Ahok, meets the press with Bali Deputy Governor Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardana Sukawati and Bali Legislative Council Speaker Nyoman Adi Wiryatama after a visit to the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle’s Bali office in Denpasar on Feb. 8. (JP/Zul Trio Anggono)
Nobody does it like Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, better known as Ahok.
Loved and loathed for his straight-talking, no-nonsense attitude as Jakarta governor, the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) politician fell from grace when he was convicted of blasphemy, for which he served one year and eight months in prison.
After a divorce and his release from prison in January, many speculated about whether he would return to politics or begin a new life far from his controversial past as governor.
Some doubted his return to politics, considering the country's social conservatism and how Basuki seemed to have broken his bond with its Muslim majority.
President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo surprised the public with a recent plan to give Ahok a top job at a state-owned enterprise (SOE).
Jokowi and Ahok have had a close relationship since the two men served together as Jakarta governor and deputy governor respectively. Jokowi is said to have offered him the job through SOE Minister Erick Thohir.
Ahok met on Wednesday with Erick and said afterwards that he was ready for the possible position. Speculation is rife that Ahok has been nominated to become president commissioner or president director of energy giant Pertamina.
