News Focus: Megawati ready to run for presidency in 2009

"Are you ready to win the contest (direct presidential elections) ?" Megawati asked her cadres, who spontaneously answered "ready" in a loud voice.

"In the name of God Almighty, I accept my nomination by PDI-P to run for the upcoming presidency," she said with tears in her eyes.

In the 22nd point of the recommendation of the party`s second national working meeting, which took place on Saturday and Sunday (Sept 8-9), Megawati was requested to become the party`s presidential candidate in the 2009 elections.

Pramono Anung, the party`s secretary general, who read out the recommendation said; First, the meeting is of the view that the country`s political, economic and cultural sovereignty is now facing a serious threat.

Second, PDI-P is worried about the strengthening of political pragmaticism without an ideological foundation.

Third, PDI-P viewed that after 2,5 years in power, the government failed to keep its promise of making changes.

"The increasing state budget in the last three years was not followed by an improvement in the quality of life and economy of the nation," Pramono said.

Fourth, the party`s meeting said the government failed to control the staple food price hike.

Fifth, the party`s meeting was also of the view that the government has yet to improve the quality of life of the grassroots, especially farmers and fishermen.