Even so, the row has revealed several things that may bode well both for Indonesian democracy and for Mr Yudhoyono's presidency.

ECONOMIST: At last, a real opposition

The changing nature of Indonesian government - from the candidness of the presidency (Wahid's propensity to shoot his mouth off ensures he needs no spokesman) to its comforting humanity (he has been known to doze off during lengthy parliament hearings, only to be pinched awake by Megawati) - is his doing and his alone.

CNN: Securing His Place

Megawati Sukarnoputri, daughter of the founding president and ousted leader of the Indonesian Democratic Party, announced Jan. 10 that she was prepared to run for the presidency.

CNN: COVER STORY - SPECIAL REPORT