MUI CALLS ON PEOPLE TO USE VOTING RIGHT

Jakarta, March 13 (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Council of Ulema (MUI) called on people eligible to vote to use their right in the legislative election on April 9.
MUI chairman Ma'ruf Amin told newsmen here on Friday that the general election was a way of seeking ideal leaders and people's representatives to realize common ideals in line with the people's aspirations and national interest.
"Therefore, MUI considers the exercise of one's voting right as an obligation in promoting good leadership and citizenship," he said.
He said exercising the right to vote was an obligation for Moslems who were eligible because it was not impossible for a bad person instead of a good one was chosen as leader because people failed to vote.
The MUI also called on would-be voters to exercise their right according to their conscience and only choose candidates who were faithful, pious, honest, aspirative, trustworthy, capable and willing to fight for the interest of Moslems and the nation, he said.
"Voters also have to be careful before making a choice. Choose those who fit your ideals," he said.
Ma'ruf suggested that voters seek information about the figures they intended to vote for to ensure their choice would not be wrong.
He also advised people to pray to God to ask for his blessing when they cast their votes.
Ma'ruf considered the legislative election a strategic momentum to make a change for a better, more just, more advanced, more prosperous and useful life.
Therefore, he called on all people, particularly Moslems in the country, to pray more to God so that the implementation of the election would be peaceful, smooth, safe and free from conflicts and hostilities.
Indonesia will also hold a presidential election in July this year.