Residents sue President over Bukittinggi mayoralty expansion

Kasparman, The Jakarta Post, Padang

Residents from 12 villages in Agam regency, West Sumatra, filed a class action lawsuit against the president on Friday over Government Regulation (PP) No. 84/1999 on the expansion of Bukittinggi mayoralty.

PP No. 84/1999, issued by former president B.J. Habibie before he was replaced by former president Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid in 1999, put 12 villages -- Cingkariang, Gaduik, Sianok VI Suku, Guguak Tabek Sarojo, Ampang Gadung, Ladang Laweh, Pakan Sinayan, Kubang Putih, Pasia IV Angkek, Kapau, Batu Taba IV Angkek and Koto Gadang -- under Bukittinggi mayoralty. The villages were previously part of Agam regency.

The villagers alleged that the incorporation of those villages with the Bukittinggi mayoralty had disadvantaged them. They did not elaborate.

"We file this lawsuit because the government does not engage the people in decision making. It disadvantages the people," lawyer Miko Kamal said without going into detail.

The residents also sued the home affairs minister, governor of West Sumatra, mayor of Bukittinggi, regent of Agam, speaker of Bukittinggi legislative council, and speaker of the Agam legislative council.

Villagers said they were seeking the revocation of the regulation and financial compensation amounting to Rp 12.012 billion (US$1.4 million).

"This is a valid regulation. It is, however, possible for people to demand a judicial review. I think it's too late," Bukittinggi Mayor Djufri said.

West Sumatra administration spokesman Yuen Karnova hailed the people's move, saying that it was legal action that must be respected.

"The public administration is ready for the legal process," Yuen added.

The hearing will take place at the Lubukbasung district court on Monday.