TNI Chief Refuses to Run With Megawati

VIVAnews - Chief of Indonesian Military (TNI) General Djoko Santoso firmly refused the plan of Jakarta Central Board of Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) to be nominated vice presidential candidate for Megawati in the 2009 Elections. Djoko Santoso is only focusing on Indonesian Military reform.

"Thank you for the appreciation. But I do not have any intention to enter the realm of politics," said Djoko Santoso on Wednesday, Jan. 28.

For the time being, Santoso said, he is still attempting to reform the Indonesian Military to be a professional and dignified institution.

Earlier, PDIP of Jakarta proposed General Djoko Santoso and former Chief of Indonesian Police Sutanto as vice presidential candidates for Megawati Soekarnoputri. Both national figures are viewed as being very successful in carrying out their duties.

Santoso also reminded all Indonesian Military personnel to stay away from practical politics. Santoso evaluated that the Indonesian Military should be capable of maintaining its neutrality as a national defense institution.

Translated by: Bonardo Maulana Wahono