Sutiyoso pledges not to disappoint Jakartans

Sutiyoso pledges not to disappoint Jakartans

SEMARANG, Central Java (JP): Jakarta Military Commander Maj.
Gen. Sutiyoso, who will be installed as the new City Governor
next month, has pledged not to disappoint Jakartans.

Sutiyoso said here Saturday he was ready for the job because
he has adequate experience and knowledge on the capital's
problems and its people.

"I will do my best and I will try not to dissatisfy
Jakartans," he told reporters.

Sutiyoso was attending a family reunion in Gunung Pati
district here.

"I know there are many challenges in becoming a Jakarta
governor. But I like challenges. And I'm sure I can handle them.

"I've been living in Jakarta for quite a long time. I was at
Kopassus (the country's elite Special Military Force) until I was
appointed as Jakarta Military Commander," he said.

"With such a background, I really know the details of
Jakarta's complex problems."

Sutiyoso admitted he had never dreamed of becoming governor.
"I just wanted to carry guns on my back. That's it," he said,
referring to his 12-year military experience in the city.

In an earlier meeting with reporters in Jakarta, Sutiyoso said
he would continue Governor Surjadi Soedirdja's programs and try
to improve them.

The two-star general also said he would imitate Surjadi's
style which was praised by many people, such as punishing
undisciplined staff and routinely visiting slum areas.

"I commend Surjadi's style in developing Jakarta. I will
follow his style and those of other former Jakarta governors
which I think is good for the city," he said.

Sutiyoso also promised to cooperate with the new City Military
Commander, which has been handed over to his former chief of
staff, Brig. Gen. Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, to further improve
security in the city.

After being elected by city councilors last week, Sutiyoso,
who has been widely predicted to fulfill the position, is now
waiting for President Soeharto's approval for his installation on
Oct. 6.

Sutiyoso received more than 80 percent of the votes, defeating
two other nominees, legislator Achmadi and the city's Deputy
Governor Tb.M. Rais. (har/jun)