JP/3/SAMARINDA

Council building deserted during campaign

SAMARINDA, East Kalimantan: The East Kalimantan provincial council building on Jl. Karang Paci here was deserted on Friday, the second day of the election campaign, as most of the councillors were busy on the campaign trail.

Only administrative staffers were seen in the office.

"Most of the councillors are busy campaigning or holding meetings with their constituents. However, they have promised that they will come into the office," said Effendy, a commission secretary for the council.

The last council meeting was held several days ago, when the councillors discussed the provincial budget. However, only 21 out of the 45 councillors attended the meeting, Effendy said.

Sugeng Haryadi, a political observer, lashed out at the councillors, saying they were selfish. -- JP