Susilo wants smooth transition

The Jakarta Post, Bogor, West Java

President-elect Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono delivered on Saturday a long overdue victory speech, with a smooth transition from outgoing President Megawati Soekarnoputri's administration topping his agenda.

In his first formal speech since the Constitutional Court confirmed his election victory two days ago, Susilo said that one of his main priorities would be coordinating the transition between his administration and the outgoing administration.

"Do not let a gap form between me and the administration of Megawati. During the transition process, government jobs and public services must continue," he said in a brief speech.

Following the General Elections Commission's declaration of Susilo's victory, Megawati remained largely silent over her landslide defeat.

The only statement she made about the election result was during a speech to commemorate the 59th anniversary of the Indonesian Military, when she urged the nation to accept whoever won the election.

She has remained tight-lipped since the Constitutional Court confirmed Susilo's victory.

A much-awaited meeting between Megawati and Susilo will take place soon, according to Megawati's brother Guruh Soekarnoputra, who said Susilo would be invited to a meeting with the family of founding president Sukarno. Guruh, however, ruled out possible talks on a transition during the gathering.

Susilo said the second item on his agenda would be forming his Cabinet. "I will select candidates for all ministerial posts. I will announce the Cabinet and swear in the ministers on Oct. 20."

The selection of his Cabinet is expected to begin on Sunday. He said the Cabinet would immediately get to work solving the country's problem.

"We will immediately take steps to tackle the task of solving regional conflicts. We will start an active drive against corruption. We will undertake immediate measures to stimulate the economy," he said.

Susilo's third priority will be putting his programs into action during his first three months in office. These programs will include reviewing the 2005 state budget, he said.

The former Army general also called on supporters of all presidential candidates to resolve their differences and work together for the country's future.

"To supporters of Ibu Megawati and other candidates, let us face this as a reality of democracy. There was a time when we competed, now it is time for us to unite," he said.

Susilo's gave his speech amid heightened security within and around his private residence in Cikeas, Bogor regency, West Java.

Scores of presidential guards are now patrolling Susilo's residence around the clock to provide security for the president- elect and his family.

The chief of the presidential guard division deployed at Susilo's residence, Second Lt. Edi Purwanto, said 100 personnel would officially assume their duties on Monday. "They will work in three shifts," he said.

On Sunday, Susilo is slated to attend a program aimed at reconciliation. All of the presidential candidates who were eliminated in the first round of the election, as well as Megawati, were also invited to the program.