NU avoids role in local elections

SURABAYA: Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Chairman Hasyim Muzadi warned on Sunday all candidates in the direct regional elections against taking advantage of their close ties with the country's largest Muslim organization.

"Candidates, regardless of their status as NU members, are banned from using NU symbols to campaign because they are nominated by and represent political parties," Hasyim said.

He was speaking during a prayer, which was attended by NU member Arief Affandi, who is vying for the Surabaya mayor's post.

Arief said he would not seek a blessing from NU leaders.

NU reaffirmed its distance from politics during its congress in November last year, which also reelected Hasyim as chairman. -- Antara