Budi Gunawan's Appointment Related to Politics: Former BIN Chief

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Former National Intelligence Agency (BIN) head Hendropriyono viewed that Comr. Gen. Budi Gunawan’s appointment as Chief of BIN head was related to political interests.

"The Chief of BIN position in this reform era is a political position, just like ministers and ambassadors," Hendropriyono told journalists at the Vice Presidential Office on Thursday, September 8, 2016.

Due to the political nature of the position, Hendro added that Budi Gunawan would be lacking the capabilities o handle technical matters. Therefore, he predicted that the BIN's technical affairs would be handled by the deputy head and other staff.

Hendro explained that such a practice was common in many countries.

"The director of intelligence agency is recruited from private sectors, because he or she is close to the president. So, it's like a political appointee," Hendropriyono said.

However, Hendro clarified that it was just his opinion, and he could be wrong. Hendro said that Budi was actually an intellectual police officer.

"BIN needs intellectual officers, not only those who excel in terms of physical maneuvers," Hendro revealed, adding that the head of BIN could not arrest people, but he could anticipate someone who had ill intentions.

In response to a question whether Budi could cause conflicts in BIN, Hendropriyono said it could happen. However, it would depend on Budi’s leadership quality, he said.

"Whether there will be resistance or not, it’s all up to the leader," Hendropriyono added.

The House of Representatives announced that it would send its approval letter regarding Budi's fit and proper test results to President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo. It is likely that Budi will be inaugurated as the Chief of BIN in the near future.

ISTMAN MP