SERVING a plate of siomay (fish dumplings) and a glass of iced green-coconut, Ahmad Mukhlis, 42, began spinning the visitors a line. He spoke about almost everything: from sidewalk traders’ eviction in Bambu Market, Bandar Lampung, to the price of daily necessities, and the coming general elections.

“If you believe in me, please vote for me this coming April 9,” he said while handing a sticker with his picture on it to a customer. The mid