30,000 youths rally in support of Golkar

JAKARTA (JP): An estimated 30,000 young supporters of Golkar held a noisy rally here yesterday, vowing to help the ruling political grouping seize victory in next year's general elections.

"I command you, the youths of Golkar, to close ranks and work to win as many votes as possible for Golkar in the 1997 general elections," Chairman Harmoko said in a fiery speech, to the loud applause of the supporters at the Senayan eastern parking lot.

Harmoko attended the rally with Secretary General Ary Mardjono, several cabinet ministers, and leaders of Golkar-linked youth organizations.

"The youths of Golkar are ready to safeguard and win the 1997 election for Golkar, and to confront those who seek to disturb the general election," Yorrys Raweyai of the Pemuda Pancasila organization declared.

The rally was not intended to be a show of force nor a maneuver to "scare the other political groupings", said Akbar Tandjung, the minister of public housing who attended the rally in his capacity as a member of Golkar's board of patrons.

"The rally is to commemorate Golkar's 32nd anniversary which falls on Oct. 20. Golkar wanted to know just how ready its youths were. That's all," he was quoted by Antara as saying.

The other political organizations -- the United Development Party (PPP) and the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI) -- are welcomed to hold similar gatherings, he said.

Later in the day, Harmoko hosted a dinner for representatives from the ruling parties of some friendly countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, China, North Korea and South Korea. (swe)