C. Java challenges Akbar's reelection

SEMARANG: The majority of regency and city branches of the Golkar Party will support the election of media magnate Surya Paloh over the incumbent leader, Akbar Tandjung, in its upcoming congress in Bali.

The motion to nominate Paloh was signed by leaders of 28 of 35 Golkar offices at the end of their meeting here early on Sunday. Paloh was at the meeting, along with senior Golkar members known to be against Akbar such as Muladi and Priyo Budi Santoso.

They also nominated Vice President Jusuf Kalla as the party's chief advisor.

The signatories said Akbar had led Golkar to a myriad of problems during his five years at the helm.

In Mataram, however, the party's West Nusa Tenggara chapter confirmed its allegiance to Akbar. -- JP