Juwono in town for a reception?

JAKARTA: The presence of Indonesian Ambassador to the United Kingdom Juwono Sudarsono in Jakarta in recent weeks has raised questions among diplomats, officials and politicians.

The question, "what is he doing in town?" has often popped up among the chattering classes, especially ahead of the election runoff due on Sept.20.

Some predicted that the former defense minister and respected figure may have received an offer of a position in the upcoming Cabinet lineup, whoever wins the presidential election.

"I am here because I am going to throw a wedding reception for my youngest son. I have asked permission from the foreign minister to take leave for one month," Juwono said during a visit to The Jakarta Post last week.

He said the only reason for his staying so long was to make preparations for the reception, and he had invited a number of well-known figures in the country.

"You are also invited to the wedding," he said. --JP