Sutiyoso rejects UK diplomat's request

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