Bugis tribe rejects Nurdin Halid

MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: Some 20 Bugis tribal leaders performed a traditional ritual, locally known as Pepepepe to reject Nurdin Halid's nomination by the local chapter of Golkar Party for the province's governor for the 2003-2008 period.

The ritual performed at the provincial legislative council building, started with the burning of gum benzoin placed inside six incense boxes. Coconut meat was put on several pieces of betel vine leaves with six candles.

A senior tribal leader uttered words, asking the legislative body to reject Nurdin's candidacy.

The tribal leaders oppose Nurdin's candidacy because of the controversy surrounding him.

Nurdin was acquitted by the South Sulawesi Higher Court in 1998 after the district court found him guilty of corruption in the clove trade in the province.

A number of factions have named their candidates for the gubernatorial election that will be held by the end of this year. --JP