Tjokropranolo Appointed Governor Of DKI Jakarta By President Suharto In History Today, June 18, 1977

Tjokropranolo and Ali Sadikin. (Perpusnas)

JAKARTA History today, 46 years ago, June 18, 1977, President Soeharto officially appointed Tjokropranolo as the new Governor of DKI Jakarta. The election for Tjokropranolo was carried out because Jakarta needed a new figure to organize Jakarta after Ali Sadikin was fired.

Previously, Ali Sadikin's role in building Jakarta was second to none. He was able to change Jakarta from The Big Village to Metropolitan City. This success made his figure famous everywhere. In fact, his popularity defeated Suharto.

Ali Sadikin's leadership record of building Jakarta often invites appreciation. He was able to become a leader who could stand above all groups. His leadership was not easily dictated. He did what he thought was right. Even though it must be contrary to President Suharto.

The figure who is familiarly called Bang Ali does not want to be arbitrary in making policies. The blusukan activity was perpetuated. He was willing to heat up until the rain came to many places. From terminals to villages.

Everything is done to make Jakarta a beacon of national civilization. The biggest budget issue is another matter. Ali can look for it. He also perpetuates all means for it, including with controversial ideas. Legalize gambling to prostitution.

The two studies were in fact successful. However, the rain of criticism followed the breakthrough. He continues to perpetuate all kinds of efforts to build Jakarta while continuing to perpetuate criticism of President Suharto's policies.

Later, Ali's figure began to be compared with Suharto. Ali's name also surfaced until his popularity beat Suharto. He was also echoed as a candidate for President of Indonesia in the future.

The word 'hard' is often used against Ali Sadikin to describe his independent thoughts and not easily waver. He is ready to face conflict and criticism directly. The education he received in West Java made it easy for Ali Sadikin to get along with religious leaders in Jakarta.

"However, he did not hesitate to enjoy modern dances, modern art, and the more trendy side of city life. Suharto must be bored compared and bored with all speculation that Ali Sadikin might follow Suharto's footsteps as president or even replace him," wrote Susan Blackburn in the bookJakarta History 400 Years (2011).

Ali Sadikin's increasing criticism and popularity made the New Order furious. Ali is seen as a leader who often denies Suharto. The power of attorney also took a stand. They don't want Ali to continue to shake the New Order power.

Ali was honorably dismissed on June 15, 1977. After that, President Soeharto officially appointed Tjokropranolo as the new Governor of DKI Jakarta on June 18, 1977. Suharto considered the determination of Tjokropranolo as a figure who could communicate well with the New Order government rather than Ali Sadikin. Moreover, Suharto and Tjokripranolo were close as superiors and subordinates.

At the end of the year, Ali Sadikin's tenure was seen as not matching the seeds of Bang Ali with Pak Harto's policy. That's why Mr. Nolly (Tjokropranolo's nickname) might have been chosen as Ali Sadikin's replacement. He came from the Army and fought in the revolutionary era."

Among others as aides to General Sudirman, Assistant Intel Kodam Diponegoro under General Suharto, and lastly as Presidential Military Secretary. All Bureau II staff who are "close" to Ali Sadikin resigned or moved to another position. Except for me, who did not receive any reflection'' to move from Tjokropranolo, "explained Wardiman Djodjonegoro in the book Along Jalan Kenangan(2016).