Megawati loyalists shave their heads

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)