Regency ready for autonomy

PEKANBARU, Riau: The regent of Indragiri Hulu, Ruchiyat Saefuddin, said yesterday that his regency was ready to take on the responsibility of autonomy despite the fact that it is not due to take place until next year.

"I dare to say that because of the many accomplishments achieved by our regency," he said as quoted by Antara.

Ruchiyat explained that the key was early preparation such as streamlining the bureaucracy and budgeting.

He claimed that the achievements were achieved despite the fact that the regency did not have a "locomotive" to spur on growth in the area. (mds)