Sorry, but my camera (batteries) were dead. What was apparent, I can only write about, but cannot document, my batteries, mati. Ma'af...sorry.
As with the April MPR/DPR elections, it all went very smoothly. It makes me wonder about these intense "travel warinings" that in my mind, have no bearing with the reality here. Has anyone heard of a travel warning to Spain?
Ibu Mega did much better than expected. In fact, she is number two, meaning onto to the "run off" in September. In Bali, she was number one...but please don't ask me why?
Bottom line here from Bali...in my opinion...it was awesome! The first time in the history of Indonesia that there was an open and free election for the president.
I loved every minute of it...every second of watching the members of my village humbly, and with pride, lining up, taking their posiion in the line, and excercising their vote, and their right to excercise it.
For the first time in Indonesia's history, the party machine was not voted. When it was time for the people to "speak"....they spoke, and loudly too!
It may be a bit rough, in the months ahead, and almost certainly more intense than the months behind us...but I remain convinced, that none of these campaigns, or demonstrations for the final determination of president will offer any visitor a dangerous situation.
Actually, in frequent talks with my Balinese family, I am amazed how little appreciation there is for the uniqueness, and the historic consequences of these elections. But, why should there be? Or, are they just being Balinese? I love it! I love it all!