'Tempted' To Lead PPP, Minister Of Agriculture Amran Sulaiman Says He Wants To Focus On Taking Care Of Food First

Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman gave a press statement in Jakarta. ANTARA/M Harianto.

MAKASSAR Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman chose to be economical when asked about his name, which was later mentioned in the stock exchange for the candidate for Chairman of the United Development Party (PPP).

Amran made a brief statement when met after witnessing the slaughter of sacrificial animals on Eid al-Adha 1446 Hijriah in Makassar, South Sulawesi, Friday, June 6.

"We'll just take care of the food first," said Amran briefly, smiling in response to reporters' questions.

So far, Amran is known to be more focused on carrying out his duties as Minister of Agriculture in the second period, especially in encouraging food security and self-sufficiency programs that are President Prabowo Subianto's priorities.

Although not officially affiliated with political parties, Amran has a close relationship with a number of political figures, including former President Joko Widodo. However, until now, his political direction has not been clearly seen, although the opportunity to become the leader of the party bearing the Kaaba is considered quite open.

The issue of Amran's candidacy as Chairman of PPP emerged after the Chairman of the Advisory Council of PPP M. Romahurmuziy or Rommy mentioned Amran's name as a strong candidate who received support, even said based on President Jokowi's proposal.

"Several times my discussions with Pak Jokowi, including in Solo, are indeed one of the reasons why Pak Amran's name is increasingly focused because Pak Jokowi knows exactly his quality and totality if given a mandate," Rommy said in a press release received by the media crew some time ago.

Rommy assesses Amran has the criteria needed to lead PPP, ranging from character, bureaucratic experience, to economic independence.

"Pak Amran managed todai Kementan both in the era of President Jokowi and now in the era of President Prabowo. From a logistics perspective, he is quite strong because he is also a businessman," said Rommy.

Amran himself still has not provided further responses regarding the possibility of stepping into a practical world of politics. He still emphasized his commitment to the success of the national food program.