Mardiyanto backed by many

SEMARANG, Central Java: The head of the Armed Forces faction in the provincial legislature here, Col. Suparto, said his faction had received dozens of letters urging it to support the nomination of Maj. Gen. Mardiyanto to replace incumbent Soewardi as governor.

"The letters come from almost all regencies in Central Java, both in an individual capacity and representing organizations," he said here yesterday.

Mardiyanto was formerly the Diponegoro Military Commander overseeing Central Java. He is currently assistant to the Armed Forces Chief of Sociopolitical Affairs.

According to Suparto, the letters state that Mardiyanto truly understands the aspirations of the people and exemplified fine qualities of leadership without any hint of arrogance while he was military commander here.

The letters of support expressed hope that, if elected, governor Mardiyanto could again bring a sense of tranquility and serenity to the province. (har)