TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - PRESIDENT Jokowi reshuffles his cabinet for the third time. Rather than signifying the end of his term, the latest reshuffle recaptures the mood in Jokowi’s early presidency: strengthening support, by including two new parties in the coalition: the National Mandate Party (PAN) and the Crescent Star Party (PBB). Instead of improving the performance of the cabinet and his administration in the remaining two years of his tenure, Jokowi still consolidates power from supporting parties. Now nearly all parties are under his control. What is it for? To bring back to the demented idea of three presidential terms? Or is it a premature move of consolidation ahead of 2024 Elections?
LAW
Yogya’s Building Permit Corruption
YOGYAKARTA Mayor Haryadi Suyuti allegedly issued licenses generously for the development of restaurants, hotels and apartments since 2013. Supported by a ‘shadow’ team under the control of his confidants, he charged Rp200 million to Rp2 billion for permit issuance. The case involves strong people in Jakarta.
ECONOMY
Bureaucracy Blocks Solar Power Generator
IT is strange, but true: amid the intensive campaign for the use of new and renewable energy, those who want to use solar panels are faced with disappointment. The obligation to obtain permits from the state electricity company PLN delays its utilization by industries and households. Is it merely bad bureaucracy or fear of losing to competition?
ENVIRONMENT
From a Pit Mine to a Park
THE Sawahlunto City government in West Sumatra plans to build a nature park on a former mining site. The park measuring 24.28 hectares is designed to be equipped with various sport facilities. It can set an example for the reclamation of open-pit mining in other locations.
