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JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: A Golkar cadre has withdrawn from the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.