Tag: Ahok

A step backward – The Edge Review

YOGYAKARTA – Before Joko Widodo takes over as President, Indonesia’s MP’s will vote on September 25 whether to revert to an old system under which heads of local government – including mayors – are chosen by local lawmakers rather than directly elected by voters. The proposed legislation is proving divisive, with the president-elect describing it as a potential setback for democracy in Indonesia. Another opposing change is Yogyakarta Mayor H. Haryadi Suyuti. “Let the people decide, let the people choose their own representative,” the mayor said.

Ahok and Jokowi make history – The Edge Review

JAKARTA – President-elect Joko “Jokowi” Widodo will become the first Indonesian leader without connections to the Suharto era when he takes office in less than 2 months time. The President-elect’s rise in paves the way for another history-making handover, as he will vacate the Governorship of Jakarta to his deputy – Basuki Tjahaja Purnama.