PDIP Politician Raise Concern Over Religious Minister

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Politician of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) Erwin Moeslimin Singajuru, asserted that the decision of President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo to appoint Fachrul Razi as the Religious Minister is not proper. "Not correct in my opinion. I am being honest,"Erwin said on Saturday, October 26, 2019.

Erwin said that the Religious Minister position should not be filled with a figure with military background. Erwin said that the perfect figure should be someone who had experience in organizations such as the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), or an academic. "There are many professors from IAIN or UIN who are smart and can work. Why not choose them?" Erwin said.

Erwin said having a Religious Ministry originated from the military was not the first time. Previously, during the Soeharto era, one of the Religious Minister from military background was Alamsyah Ratu Perwirenegara.

"During Pak Harto [period] it is good. [Alamsyah] has leadership, firmness, because it is needed," Erwin added.

However, for the current cabinet, Erwin asserted that the correct figure to be a Religious Affairs Minister is Mahfud MD. Erwin explained that a figure like Mahfud can talk about scriptures, law, and politic.

Although considered in improper, Erwin hoped that the presence of Fachrul Razi can give his best efforts for the people. Moreover, Fachrul also have deputy ministers from the civil elements, such as Deputy Chief of MUI Zainut Tauhid.

FRISKI RIANA