TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President’s Special Staffer for Communication Fadjroel Rachman said public suggestions regarding the nomination of Basuki Tjahaja Purnama or Ahok to spearhead a state-owned enterprise (SOE) would be discussed during a meeting of the TPA (Final Assessment Team).

“The team comprises the President, Vice President Ma’ruf Amin, the State Secretary Minister, the Cabinet Secretary, related ministers, and the employment body,” said Fadjroel at the Presidential Palace Complex, Jakarta, Monday, November 18.

Fadjroel balked at responding objections from several parties against the former Jakarta Governor's nomination and entrusted the matter to SOE Minister Erick Thohir.

“As for the proposed names, none is sent to us. Ask Pak Erick Thohir,” he added.

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo previously confirmed the nomination of Basuki as the top man of an SOE. Rumors were rife that Basuki would be assigned as the chief commissioner of state gas and oil firm PT Pertamina.

The Federation of Pertamina United Labor Unions' (FSPPB) president, Arie Gumilar, rejected the idea as Basuki was known as a figure who frequently stirred public controversies.

He feared that the Ahok’s emotional character would affect the firm’s organization, as well as the energy distribution and fuel services to the public.

Meanwhile, SOE Minister’s special staffer Arya Sinulingga assumed the protest voiced by FSPPB was pinned down to two factors: Basuki’s frugal attitude and political difference.

Arya then called on the SOE’s worker union to behave as professionals and accept leaders regardless of their backgrounds. He also lamented the objection was conveyed even before Ahok’s performance was tested.

AHMAD FAIZ IBNU SANI