Golkar may extend convention

Golkar may extend convention

JAKARTA: Golkar is planning to call a leaders meeting from
Oct. 17 through Oct. 19 to discuss the possibility of delaying
the announcement of its presidential candidate.

According to the existing schedule, Golkar is expected to
announce its sole presidential candidate on February 13, 2004.

However, there are strong demands from several regional
chapters to extend the convention until the result of the
legislative elections is announced. The legislative election is
scheduled for April 5.

Golkar leader Agun Gunandjar Sudarsa said on Monday the
extension would help keep the party united.

According to him, announcing Golkar's presidential candidate
before the legislative election could damage party unity ahead of
both legislative and presidential elections.

Candidates who failed to become Golkar's presidential aspirant
could possibly change their mind and accept a nomination from
other parties.

Agun said such a situation would damage party unity. The
convention is being participated in by 19 figures, including
Golkar chairman Akbar Tandjung. -- JP