Populist Leader Vs Elite Figure

Tweet

This is a story that is still connected with recent election for the governor in my province, North Sumatera, Indonesia. There are 5 candidates run for the candidacy. I wont tell you about those 5 candidates, but I want to focus on just two candidates. The first one is Golkar candidate: Ali Umri; while the second one is Syamsul Arifin. Both of them are cucumbents. Ali Umri is the Mayor of Binjai, a small town nearby Medan City. While Syamsul Arifin is Mayor of Langkat county. But what is the difference between the two? Ali Umri is described as an elite leader, especially when he was elected to lead Golkar Party of North Sumatera. He nominated thru his party, and all that he can say is he is quite sure to win the election. With vast assets, Ali Umri played all games to assure his success. But nevertheless he is not so popular among grass-rooted people. How about Syamsul Arifin, the main rival? He is described as a populist leader. He establishes strong relationship with grass-rooted masses. He is so popular among various etnics. No wonder when his nomination was warmly welcome by the mayority of people. People power in this case is working or operaring for a good cause. People need a grass-rooted leader who cares of them. People has shown their loyal and their strong will to their noble cause, when Syamsul Arifin got the leading position in votes-getting.