Sutiyoso rejects UK diplomat's request

JAKARTA: Governor Sutiyoso declined to close down a section of Jl. Prof. Moch. Yamin in Central Jakarta -- which radiates from the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle and runs adjacent to the British Embassy -- as requested by British Ambassador to Indonesia Richard Gozney on Monday.

Gozney conveyed the request in response to the great number of protesters and rallies near the embassy. The occurrence of so many demonstrations often disrupts embassy activities.

Sutiyoso said that he could not close down the road because it would violate the people's rights. He promised, however, to send a letter to the Jakarta Police requesting tighter security for the embassy.

Despite the refusal, Gozney said he was glad the governor had lent a hand to help tighten security. -- JP