Megawati loyalists shave their heads

KEBUMEN, Central Java: The Indonesian Democratic Party's (PDI) election defeat was greeted with joyous laughter and a day-long party by Megawati loyalists in Gombong Monday.

The party thrown by activist Rustriningsih peaked in dozens of youths shaving their heads. With shiny pates glistening in the sunshine, they paraded in open pick-up vans through the town, chanting pro-Megawati slogans.

Under the careful gaze of plainclothes officers, they yelled criticism of Soerjadi, the government-recognized PDI chief they blamed for the PDI's abysmal performance.

"Viva Megawati, goodbye Soerjadi" was heard along the route.

The parade ended at Ayah beach, about 30 kilometers from Gombong, where they cruised along the coast in a boat belonging to a Megawati supporter.

Rustriningsih said she was planning an even bigger "thanksgiving" party for Soerjadi's failure. (wah)