UGM economist, Dr. Sri Adiningsih, criticized the plan to increase the salary of newly elected ministers. In her opinion, it is not the time to increase their salary when there are many unemployed people and layoffs around as a result of the global crisis. "This issue is very sensitive, hurting people," said Adiningsih to reporters.
Met on the sidelines of the national seminar 'The Development and Role of APEC in Indonesia' which was held at the University Club (UC), Monday (26/10), she said that although in terms of budget, the increase would not have a significant effect, but it would be prudent to delay it, or the increase should be done gradually.
Related to President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's plan to have vice-ministerial positions, according to Adiningsih, this is not very effective based on the workload. "There are Director Generals, expert staff, and assistants. They should suffice, "she said.
Meanwhile, a political observer from UGM, Arie Sudjito, S. Sos. M.Si, urged the House of Representatives to reject the salary increase plan. The plan at the start of work of the Cabinet is seen as degrading their image. "Parliament should shout loudly about it," he said, Monday (26/10).
Arie Sudjito said that the new ministers have heavier psychological burden in the first 100-days' work due to the public allegations saying that they are not experts in their fields, not to mention the so-called political contract with President SBY.
Â