Governor's inauguration protested

JAKARTA (JP): Hundreds of demonstrators clashed with security forces in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, on Monday as they tried to disrupt the inauguration of Harun Alrasid as the province's governor.

The clash resulted in dozens hurt as security officers blocked the demonstrators' path to the provincial legislature where Minister of Home Affairs Syarwan Hamid and 44 legislators witnessed the inauguration.

Unable to break through the security barrier, the demonstrators vented their frustration on nearby buildings and cars.

"According to the information that we've received so far, 10 demonstrators and three security personnel were injured and hospitalized at Mataram Public Hospital," said West Lombok Police Precinct chief Lt. Col. Junaidhy Thiansyah as quoted by Antara.

At least seven cars, belonging to the provincial administration, were damaged.

Junaidhy said at least 16 people had been detained for damaging cars and buildings.

Security forces successfully contained the unrest as troops were swiftly deployed to other sections of the city to anticipate further breakouts of violence.

Officials, anticipating a security disturbance, had prepared for further turmoil following unrest on Saturday over Harun's election.

Students, youths and religious leaders in West Nusa Tenggara have staged a series of demonstrations since the election took place on Aug. 1.

They claim that Harun is unpopular among the local population and accuse him of buying votes in the election.

On Saturday, thousands gathered in front of the provincial legislature to express their discontent. The rally eventually deteriorated into chaos.

Several people were injured and at least 27 were detained.

Born in Bolo, Bima district, Harun, 59, replaces Maj. Gen. (ret) Warsito for the post's 1998/2003 term.

Harun, a former Jakarta deputy governor, garnered 22 votes in the legislature while his two rivals, West Lombok Regent HL. Mudjitahid and West Nusa Tenggara Deputy Governor HL Azhar, received 17 and 6 votes respectively.

Syarwan seemed to dismiss the protests, maintaining that Harun had been elected in accordance to proper rules.

"I'm not worried because what I'm doing is consistent with the Constitution," he said after the inauguration. (01)