TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Andreas Parera, the Indonesia Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) central executive board chairman, said the party has been communicating with Budi Waseso who is currently serving as the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) chief. The three-star general rank has been eyed by PDIP to be included in the shortlist of gubernatorial candidates for 2017 Jakarta election.
“The communication continues, because he [Budi Waseso] has many PIDP cadres as friends,” Andreas told Tempo Wednesday via WhatsApp Messenger. Aside from Budi Waseso, Surabaya Mayor Tri Rismaharini has also been taken into consideration.
Andreas said that Budi Waseso’s name has came up based on the suggestions from the public. The PDIP will monitor the names being bandied about among the public. “The PDIP will monitor the dynamics and support from various elements [of society],” he said.
In addition, Andreas explained that the party will strimline the shortlist to decide who will PDIP nominate. There are currently 34 names that will be narrowed to five names only. “We will narrow it next week to five names only,” he said.
ARKHELAUS W.
