Papuan governor's tenure extended

JAYAPURA, Papua: The central government has extended the period of tenure of the Papuan governor and deputy governor indefinitely, pending a decision by the President to appoint a caretaker governor.

"The tenure of the governor and deputy governor expired on Nov. 23 but as a caretaker has not been appointed by the President, Minister of Home Affairs Muhammad Ma'ruf extended their tenure indefinitely through a letter sent to Papuan administration a few days ago," said Andi Basso Basaleng, the secretary to the Papuan provincial administration.

The extension was aimed at preventing a power vacuum in Indonesia's easternmost province, said Andi.

Papua will elect a new governor and deputy governor next year.

JP Salossa, the current governor of Papua, is seeking reelection with his running mate Paskalis Cossay. Meanwhile, Salossa's deputy Constan Karma, is seeking the gubernatorial post in the election slated to be held next year and has picked a running mate, Donatus Mote. The two pairs of candidates will contest the election with three other pairs of candidates. -- JP