'TNI banned from taking sides'

KUPANG, East Nusa Tenggara: A top military official has said that the Indonesian Military (TNI) will stay neutral ahead of the direct election of regional administration heads in East Nusa Tenggara province this year.

TNI personnel have been warned against mobilizing resources and facilities to help one candidate, said chief of Udayana Military Command overseeing eastern parts of Indonesia Maj. Gen. Supiadin.

Soldiers are also banned from influencing the public in favor of one candidate over another, he said in a statement read out during the celebration of Wirasakti Military Resort Command's 44th anniversary in Kupang.

The statement was read by Col. Moeswarno Moesanip, the chief of Wirasakti Military Command overseeing East Nusa Tenggara. The direct election in the province this year will be held in six regencies and municipalities. -- JP