Seeking Coalition to Improve Government

VIVAnews - Chairman of Central Leadership Council of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) Firman Jaya Daeli said that the coalition between Islamic and nationalistic parties is a condition to improve the government. "The coalition must be strong and permanent," Daeli told VIVAnews on Monday, Dec 15.

The coalition issue was conveyed by Muhammadiyah Head Din Syamsuddin. Syamsuddin invited Islamic parties to collaborate with, possibly, nationalists. Through the coalition, it is expected that the votes in the legislative elections would exceed 20 percent of the total member composition of the House of Representatives (DPR) in line with the Law on General Elections. Thus, Islamic parties may put forward their President and Vice President.

Daeli said the coalition can build up the government if it is permanently carried out. "Concerning the proposal, I guess it should be returned to Mr.  Din and leaders of his Islamic party," he said.

However, Daeli said, PDIP has not yet taken any decision regarding Din Syamsuddin's idea.

Daeli said that his party chooses to consolidate the organizational structure and communicate with several political parties and public figure to welcome the legislative and presidential elections.

Translated by: Bonardo Maulana Wahono