Golkar cadre refuses candidacy

Golkar cadre refuses candidacy

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: A Golkar cadre has withdrawn from the race for a provincial legislative seat, citing the party's failure to put forward women candidates.

Ola Dwaramuri of Jayawijaya regency told Antara on Thursday she opted out of the race to give younger people, particularly women a chance. She also said her involvement in the political organization interfered with her job as a civil servant at the education and culture office in her home town.

"I've been elected provincial legislative council member twice. I suggested Golkar chapter officials pick my juniors, but they did not dare," Ola said.

She said she had turned down her renomination, but her superiors had turned a deaf ear to her request.

Ola said she would write to the local elections committee and Golkar chapter to clarify the issue.

"Women's candidates are placed at the bottom of the list, in spite of the fact that they have dedicated themselves to the party for years. Golkar ignores their loyalty."

Local Golkar members said they were afraid Ola's withdrawal would adversely affect the party's performance in the forthcoming polls.