The appointment of attorney Delano Landvreugd as Minister of Internal Affairs (Biza) appears to be a done deal. Landvreugd, nominated by the ABOP party, is expected to be sworn in on Sunday. Additionally, former minister Maurits Hassankhan will take on a prominent role as Deputy Minister, with his primary responsibility being the organization of the upcoming elections.
The choice of Landvreugd comes after months of political wrangling. Bronto Somohardjo resigned in October due to an investigation by the Central Government Audit Office (CLAD), sparking a power struggle between the Pertjajah Luhur (PL) and ABOP over control of the succession. Although the PL submitted a list of 28 candidates, President Chan Santokhi charted his own course by initially appointing Steven Mac Andrew as acting minister.
The intention to appoint Landvreugd without involving the PL seems to have escalated tensions within the coalition. PL leader Paul Somohardjo reportedly held discussions with the President last week, but no concrete outcome was achieved. Behind the scenes, however, the government leadership appears to have already made its decision, despite the risk of further friction within the coalition.
Hassankhan and Ramsukul strengthen the team
In addition to Landvreugd, Hassankhan will be appointed as Deputy Minister of Biza to ensure smooth election management. Furthermore, Sieuw Ramsukul, the Director of Land Policy and Forestry Management, will take on the role of Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Land Policy and Forestry Management (GBB).
Political dynamics
While the decision seems final, unrest persists within the coalition. It appears that the Pertjajah Luhur has been sidelined in the decision-making process. The party is currently deliberating on a strategy to reconsider its position. How the PL will respond to this situation remains unclear for now.
