Indonesia tightens security ahead of local election

The Indonesian security force protects a voting point (Source: asiancorrespondent.com)

Jakarta (VNA) – Security agencies in provinces and cities in Indonesia have coordinated with the army to implement measures to ensure security for the local election, especially in the context of security threats, including possible bombing threats and violent protests during the election.

Central Sulawesi’s police deployed forces to boost security after discovering a handbag suspected of containing bombs at a popular residential area in Palu city on December 7, which caused an evacuation.

Meanwhile, in North Sumatra, the police deployed more than 1,000 persons in coordination with the army to ensure security at the headquarters of the General Elections Commission (KPUD) after a riot opposing KPUD’s decision of not accepting some candidates’ status.

In the Wonogiri in Central Java, the police raised security alert to the highest level ahead of the election day after the two candidates had statements inciting voters because of their disagreement.

Regardless of bomb threats, Central Sulawesi Police Chief Brigadier General Idham Azis affirmed the police could ensure security for the election as planned.

In order to save time and cost, the Indonesian Government decided, for the first time in history, to organise 269 voting areas, or half of the total number of provincial-level voting areas in the country, on December 9.

The election will vote nine governors and 260 district heads out of 771 candidates.

President Joko Widodo called on the people to participate in the election to vote for the deserved leaders.-VNA