IO, Jakarta – Vice-President Jusuf Kalla (JK) believes it is nothing out of the ordinary if President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) were to choose ministers from his own political party. JK believes that ministers from political parties will also be selected based on their abilities. “A joint cabinet between prospective ministers from political parties is normal, because party coalitions who support the government are also professionals. As a result, now, 15 are from political parties, 19 are professionals. So, this is normal,” said JK from the Vice-Presidential Office in Jalan Medan Merdeka Utara, Central Jakarta, Tuesday (2/7/2019).
JK stated that it was perfectly reasonable for parties within the coalition to receive a quota for cabinet positions in Jokowi’s government. According to JK, ministers from political parties were no less capable of those from the professional world. “Everywhere, other than supporters, supporting parties in the House of Representatives (DPR) also work together in the cabinet. It is normal for this to happen. At least between ministers from parties, and that doesn’t mean it isn’t professional. There are also many ministers from parties that are also professionals,” explained the vice-president.
JK also stated that he believes that there would be a certain party to receive the lion’s share of the cabinet quota. JK said he believes that Jokowi will divide the cabinet fairly. “In line with the seats acquired in the DPR, that means it is fair as there is something to measure it with. As if there is no measuring instrument, it would be difficult to make a decision. So, say the largest party is PDIP like it is now, then they would automatically receive the most ministries in the cabinet,” he explained. (dsy)