PDI-P suspends local board

PADANG, West Sumatra : The Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) in Jakarta has issued an official letter temporarily suspending the provincial executive board due to a prolonged internal dispute.

All duties and tasks relating to party matters in the province have been taken over by the central executive board according to a letter dated Aug. 16.

The letter, signed by chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri and General Secretary Sutjipto, also urged party members in the province to maintain unity despite the ongoing internal rift.

The dispute which began in early July centers around the controversial election of new provincial chairman Djanas Raden after a provincial congress.

Resistance against Djanas' leadership was also evident as four members of the new provincial board immediately resigned.

The rift widened and has split party followers in the 14 branches of the province into two camps. (28/lup)