"After much consideration and discussions with my political team, while praying to God for direction, I have decided against participating in the Democrat Party`s convention," Mahfud said.Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Former constitutional court chief justice Mahfud MD has decided against taking part in the ruling Democrat Party`s convention aimed at selecting a presidential candidate for next year`s election.
"After much consideration and discussions with my political team, while praying to God for direction, I have decided against participating in the Democrat Party`s convention," he said after meeting with the convention committee here on Thursday.
Mahfud, who had earned much fame for fighting against corruption during his tenure as chief justice and was, therefore, considered likely to be elected as the party`s presidential candidate at the convention, read out his decision in front of the press.
His meeting with the convention committee lasted only about 10 minutes, unlike the usually hour-long meetings of other candidates .
Mahfud expressed hope that the Democrat Party would succeed in finding a suitable presidential candidate who could further develop Indonesia.
He also expressed his appreciation to the Democrat Party for inviting him to take part in convention.
In addition, Mahmud lauded the party for deciding to hold the convention, saying it was an innovative idea to select a candidate for national leadership.
"After discussing with friends and teachers and after much introspection, I felt that I should not take part in the convention. Therefore, I decided to opt out," he explained.
Convention committee secretary Suaidi Marasabessy and committee member Hinca Panjaitan appeared to be disappointed with Mahfud`s decision, but they chose to remain silent when the press sought their comments.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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