Irian Jaya to get new governor

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: The provincial legislative council has elected Commodore Freddy Numberi, chief of the Jayapura naval base, as the new governor for the 1998/2003 period to replace Jacob Patippi.

In the election chaired by Robert Sitorus here Tuesday, Freddy swept 33 of 44 votes and defeated two other candidates, HE Mackbon and Herman Monim.

Numberi still needs President Soeharto's approval, after which he will be sworn in on April 14, Sitorus was quoted by Antara as saying.

Numberi, born in Serui Laut Village, Yapen Waropen, on April 15, 1947, is the first high-ranking military officer from the province to be elected governor. (rms)