New governor elected today

JAKARTA (JP): The City Council will today select Jakarta's next governor from the three nominees who have received President Soeharto's approval.

Councilor Achmad Suaidy, chairman of the United Development Party (PPP) faction, said yesterday that the nominees were not invited to the voting process because their presence may affect voters.

"We want to have a clear, fair and smooth election," Achmad said.

The council does not want nominees to feel disappointed if they do not win the election, he said.

"Imagine how they would feel if, for instance, one of them lost and got only a few votes."

The three nominees are Jakarta Military Commander Maj. Gen. Sutiyoso, Deputy Governor of Economic and Development Affairs Tb.M. Rais and House of Representatives member Achmadi.

At the meeting today, the 75 councilors will be required to make their choice and submit it in a closed envelope.

Sutiyoso has been widely touted as the winner after receiving the blessing of his superior, the Armed Forces Commander Gen. Feisal Tanjung.

Governor Surjadi Soedirdja's term ends on Oct. 5 and the new governor will be installed on Oct. 6, with his term due to end in 2002.

Surjadi said yesterday that whoever succeeded him would be able to fulfill the duties of managing Jakarta.

"Whoever is chosen as the city's governor is not a new kid on the block," he said. "So, there is no need for me to give comments or advice. It will be just fine." (07)