Megawati condemns media, opposition

President Megawati Soekarnoputri in her capacity as chairwoman of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (photo above) is pictured attending a party anniversary celebration at her private residence in the Kebagusan area of South Jakarta.

In a speech during the event on Tuesday evening, Megawati lashed out at the media and her critics for blowing up out of proportion the recent nationwide antigovernment protests. Calling any attempts to topple her government both unconstitutional and uncivilized, Megawati suggested that her rivals should wait to challenge her in a free and fair election next year.

Megawati, who claims to enjoy the support of 40 million people, said Indonesia should not let history repeat itself. Three of the four presidents before Megawati stepped down in disgrace following political turmoil. --JP