SL Mingles with PDI-P’s Senior Politicians in Olly’s Residence
reported by: Liu Setiawan
Manado, June 1, 2024/Indonesia Media – At the meeting with a warmth in the residence of Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P)’s treasurer, Olly Dondokambey in Manado City, north Sulawesi, a one-star general officer in Indonesian Marine Corps (TNI AL) who is currently serving as commander of naval base (Danlantamal) IX, Ambon, Said Latuconsina (SL) made an atmosphere in which they mingled well with each others
In that informal meeting, not only with one of senior PDI-P politicians, there were some Indonesian businessmen present. The meeting was not only for particular friendship, but pivotal moments of sharing experiences and understanding in politics. When a group of journalists were interviewing about the matters discussed at the meeting, SL said that was a part of fostering good friendship with the party leaders, who have been trusted by Indonesian people. PDI-P has really shown, as the political party with the highest level of public trust in Indonesia, wins the highest votes during the general election 2024. SL reiterated that friendship with the politicians was intended for learning with the seniors who have abundant experiences in politics. Olly Dondokambey (OD), a senior politician who has earned popularity, is actually straight and generous, willing to share good advice to SL.
According to OD, when entering politics, he/she should always be alert to annoyance, anger, and betrayal from his/her political opponents. That’s only in such a way, a leader will earn reputation and trust from any political party. The practical advice is very meaningful for SL, who is a high ranking officer with responsibilities to conduct security in the territorial waters of Maluku province. Moreover, the key of marine security and safety for Maluku province is in the hands of the Indonesian Navy, since Maluku embraces many islands in which the inhabitants come from different ethnicity, religion, race and inter-group relations. Therefore SL has his own experiences in fostering heterogeneity.
The meeting was full of an atmosphere of familyhood. SL was served with Manado cake, while creating a warm atmosphere full of familyhood. OD also introduced some businessmen who have been involved in Maluku. One of them is Mr. Suyono whose nickname is Poka, since he was born in a village located in Teluk Ambon district, Maluku. When he was asked if OD would support SL for Maluku gubernatorial election, in November 2024, SL refused to give further comment in such a modest way.
SL said that nothing will ever befall us except what Allah has destined for us. He is our Protector. So in Allah let the believers put their trust. So, SL said that journalists just wait for the right time. He believes that Allah will declare, ‘This is the Day when only the faithful will benefit from their faithfulness. Theirs are Gardens under which rivers flow, to stay there forever and ever. Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him. The figure of SL has been known for his good relationship with PDI-P’s senior politicians. Besides Olly Dondokambey, SL is also close to the secretary general of PDI-P, Hasto Kristiyanto, parliament member who is still active, Mindo Sianipar and Bambang DH. With big support from people in Maluku towards SL, he hopes that there will be big change for the archipelagic province. (LS/IM)