Pedicab driver to vie for governor race

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

A pedicab driver, Ujang, returned on Thursday his completed application forms to the gubernatorial election committee, in a bid to enter the governor's race in Lampung province for the period of 2004-2009.

Ujang's presence at the Lampung legislative (DPRD) building apparently took the police, security guards and reporters by surprise, as it was rare for them to see pedicab drivers walking down the DPRD's hallowed halls.

"I will continue and strive hard. If I'm elected governor, I will create opportunities for employment," promised Ujang, who was escorted by dozens of his colleagues during the registration process.

He is one of 56 people (29 candidates for governor and 27 candidates for vice-governors) who returned their application forms.

Like others from the lower rungs of the socio-economic ladder, he expressed his hopes and ideas frankly without any of the smooth double-talk that polished politicians seem to be so fond of.

"If I am elected, I will raise the standard of living among the poor, so their children can be properly educated and not be left behind like we have been," he vowed.

After handing in his documents, he rode away on his pedicab with a police escort. He is not the only pedicab driver to have run for governor in the country. Another pedicab driver in Jakarta also tried his luck last year in Jakarta's election, but none of the councillors saw fit to vote for him and instead handed Sutiyoso a second term.

Ujang made up his mind to enter the race after the Lampung legislative council decided last week to repeat the elections of Lampung governor, slated to be held on May 15.

The seat of Lampung governor was empty after Minister of Home Affairs Hari Sabarno annulled the victory of governor Alzier Dianis Thabranie, who won the most votes in 2002. He was ousted recently after being charged with corruption.

Also running on May 15 will be Oemarsono, who was defeated by Alzier in the governor's election on Dec. 30, 2002.