NU figure named deputy governor

SEMARANG: The Central Java chief of Muslim organization Nahdlatul Ulama, Achmad, has been named the deputy governor for administrative affairs here replacing Hartono, who died last October.

"Achmad has a good track record and is a popular community leader. He was twice elected as regent, too. So we have no doubt of his credibility," M. Toyfoer, deputy speaker of the provincial legislature said on Thursday.

Achmad, also known as one of President Abdurrahman Wahid's close associates, said he was ready to serve the people's interests. "But I cannot carry out my job without the people's support," he said. (har/edt)