JP/4/scene2

JP/4/scene2

Parties to dominate
local elections

JAKARTA: The House of Representatives' commission deliberating
the revision of the Local Autonomy Law will likely bar
independent figures from directly contesting gubernatorial,
mayoral and regental elections, a lawmaker says.

Legislator Firman Jaya Daeli from the Indonesian Democratic
Party of Struggle (PDI-P) faction said on Sunday that if the idea
floated recently was adopted, then independents would only be
able to contest such elections if they were nominated by a
political party. The idea, which Firman said was supported by all
factions in the House, was aimed at creating effective and strong
government, said Firman.

It is expected that the revised Local Autonomy Law will be
endorsed before House legislators conclude their five-year terms
in September. - JP