Governor says it with tears

Governor says it with tears

JAKARTA (JP): So moved by what he saw as President Soeharto's
honesty, Irian Jaya governor Jacob Pattipi only mumbled broken
words and shed tears when asked to comment on the President's
inaugural speech yesterday.

"He (Soeharto) is a great man... Not only did he list
successes but also admitted failures. On top of that, he also
expects criticisms," he said.

He paused, pulled a handkerchief from his pocket, took off his
glasses and repeatedly wiped away tears. He said he was very
moved by the President's statements.

Pattipi mentioned the numerous efforts that Soeharto has made
to develop Irian Jaya, the eastern-most province which is rich in
natural resources but remains poor. (pan)