"I am ready to run for president in 2014," said the general chairman of the People`s Conscience Party (Hanura) on Wednesday.
Although he had failed in his efforts to become the president in 2004 and the vice president in 2009, he said he will not give up.
"I am always ready. I am willing to serve my nation until death," he said.
The former defence forces commander believes that his experience as a government official reflects his contribution and service to the state.
"As a Muslim, I have been taught not to stay idle when something is not right," he said.
Wiranto, who is also the former coordinating minister for political, security and legal affairs, said he has not decided on his running mate. He said it will be decided after the legislative elections in 2014.
"It is not the right time to discuss who will be my running mate. It will be decided after the legislative elections, based on the political developments in 2014," he said.
The chairman of the party`s East Java chapter, Kuswanto, said he agrees with Wiranto`s statements.
He said the results of the national leadership meeting in Jakarta (early this year) reflect the party`s trust in Wiranto.
"Leaders of various parties across Indonesia have shown their support for Wiranto. We hope that Wiranto will become the next Indonesian president," he said.
Aburizal Bakrie, general chairman of the Golkar Party, will be one of Wiranto`s rivals in the presidential election, along with the former vice president, Jusuf Kalla, the former president, Megawati Soekarnoputri, and the former special forces soldier, Prabowo Subianto.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2012
