TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Former presidential candidate number 02, Sandiaga Uno, was recently rumored to be a candidate to lead state electricity firm PLN. However, he ensured there was no such job offer to date.

“No offer, no discussion,” said Sandiaga when met at an event of Indonesia Economic Forum in Kuningan, South Jakarta, Wednesday, November 20.

The Gerindra Party politician was also tight-lipped to explain whether he would be willing to serve as PLN president director or not.

Sandiaga admitted there were talks about state-owned enterprises with SOE Minister Erick Thohir through Whatsapp messaging app, but it was not specifically about certain strategic positions at a state firm.

During the discussion, Sandiaga voiced his views that SOEs must be operated without political aspects, let alone joining the politics, as SOEs belonged to the people. “As a cadre of Gerindra, I told Pak Erick that SOEs will be the public spotlight,” he said.

Sandiaga also said to the minister that giving a contribution to the state infrastructure did not necessarily by becoming a minister or an SOE official. Professionals up to mothers, he added, could contribute too. “Pak Erick fully understands it.”

Previously, Sandiaga hinted that he would not join the government side considering the check and balance was vital for future administrations.

“Opposition party is necessary. And I am truly honored to have a chance to be an opposition and continuously monitor the government’s work, giving inputs,” said Sandiaga Uno in Kemang Village, Jakarta, Saturday, July 13.

FAJAR PEBRIANTO