Taufik to run for PD leadership

JAKARTA: State Minister of Administrative Reforms Taufik Effendi has won support to join the race for the new leadership of the Democratic Party at an upcoming congress, according to a senior party official.

Vence Rumangkang, a deputy leader of the party, said on Monday that Taufik had won the support of the party's provincial chapters at a recent leadership meeting.

Vence insisted the party hold its congress on Feb. 18 to Feb. 21, while another faction led by current party leader Subur Budhisantoso wanted the congress be held in March.

The party meeting, which ended on Jan. 27, was attended by 28 provincial chapters. State Minister of Culture and Tourism Jero Wacik also attended the meeting.

The Democratic Party, a newly established party, had emerged as the fourth biggest party and brought Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to the presidency. - Antara