PDI-P to elect new leader for Central Java

SEMARANG: The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) will elect a new chairman of the party's Central Java chapter later this month, to replace the departing Mardijo.

Mardijo was dismissed last month by PDI Perjuangan chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri for defying her order to support the renomination of Central Java Governor Mardianto. Mardijo insisted on running himself, though he was defeated.

Mardijo's former post is being temporarily filled by Gunawan Wirosarojo, who was appointed to the post by the PDI Perjuangan's central board.

Several names have been floated as possible candidates for the post, including Bambang Pranoto, Willem Tutuarina and Agus Condro. All are members of the House of Representatives.

Other candidates are Murdoko (deputy treasurer of Central Java's PDI Perjuangan chapter), Daniel Budi Setiono (a former senior party executive in the province), Frans Lukman (chairman of the party's Cilacap branch) and two party councillors, Gatot Luprijatomo and Maulen Sinaga.--JP