Aceh governor's ceremony delayed

BANDA ACEH, Aceh: The swearing-in ceremony for Syamsuddin Mahmud to become governor of Aceh, originally slated for today, has been delayed indefinitely.

The speaker of the provincial legislature, Teuku Djohan, said a telegram from the Ministry of Home Affairs received Saturday ordered the delay.

The country's recent political developments and change in leadership was given as the reason for the delay, Antara reported.

Syarwan Hamid was sworn in as home minister Saturday, replacing R. Hartono.

However, Teuku said the ceremony's delay would not hinder Syamsuddin from continuing his tasks.

Syamsuddin was reelected to the post for a second five-year term last month.

"Minister Syarwan Hamid just took over the office today (Monday), so it's impossible for him to swear in the Aceh governor the next day," Teuku remarked. (aan)