Just to the North of Australia lies a series of islands known as Indonesia, known to Australians as a place of booze and drug filled ‘spring break’ style getaways, and one of the worst places to get on the wrong side of the law.

Having Just had it’s election for president, only the second time a democratic election for the office was announced, for the very first time a non-elite candidate was run and apparently won with 53% of the vote.

A political new comer to the national political scene Joko Widodo (Jokowi) cut his teeth as Governor of Jakarta and previously as Mayor of Solo.

Some commentators as saying he is too close to the much more experienced and politically connected former President  Megawati Sukanoputri, and may be unduly influenced by her and her circle.

His presidential  election opponent Probowo Subianto ( a more typical Indonesian military strong man president archetype)  has called for a recount in a largely symbolic (and slightly sour grapes) move, though the result is unlikely to change.

Joko Widodo made his fortune in the furniture export business, and had flagged infrastructure and heath as major areas for improvement for Indonesia’s 240 Million People.

Significance?

240 Million people on your doorstep have a new political direction.

48 million of them didn’t eat enough today either.

A sweet little  info clip from the guardian.

http://www.theguardian.com/world/video/2014/jul/23/ten-things-to-know-about-joko-widodo-jokowi-profile-video