PDI-P office attacked

PALU, Central Sulawesi: Some 150 Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) supporters attacked the office of the party's provincial chapter on Wednesday to protest what they called the undemocratic election of Dahyar Alatas as chairman.

The protesters pelted the office on Jl. Sultan Hasanuddin in Marawola district, causing severe damage to its windows and wooden gate.

One of the attackers, Irwan, said Dahyar, the deputy speaker of Buol Tolitoli legislative council, did not deserve the party leadership post because he lost to Renny Lamadjido by six votes in the July 23 election. Renny, a local businessman, won 14 out of 24 ballots cast, but was sidelined on the grounds that he did not meet the minimum requirement of four years of party membership.

Palu Police chief Supt. Sudargo said no arrest had been made, pending a lawsuit filed by the party. (27/lup)