‘We’re not as stupid as before’

The campaigns have begun for Jakarta’s first-ever direct gubernatorial elections in July and political hopefuls are getting involved in everything from soccer matches to tree-planting days. The Jakarta Post asked people how eager they were to vote for the city’s next governor.

Moch. Ichsan, 42, is a taxi driver living in Pamulang, Tangerang:
To tell the truth, I don’t really pay attention to political issues in Jakarta.
No matter who the governor is, common people like us will always feel life’s hardships. We are often taken advantage of during elections, when political parties or
candidates promise us this and that.
In reality, very few of these pledges are realized.
However, I hope the next Jakartan governor will pay attention to the effect of transportation developments on taxi drivers like myself. The busway project has make our days more difficult and I hope the governor will find a solution that can satisfy everyone.

Erwin H. Juwono, 28, is the owner of a household appliances store in Fatmawati, South Jakarta. He lives in Cibubur, East Jakarta:
People are increasingly aware about the (governor’s election). Some might take “political money” from candidates, but will remain independent when they vote.
I often hear such remarks (about taking the money) from people on the streets and in a neighboring village near my housing complex.
We are not as stupid and oppressed as we were before. Most educated people realize the long-term effects of choosing a quality candidate.
What people in Jakarta need is more public forums so they can really get to know the candidates.

— The Jakarta Post