Gamawan Hopes for Peaceful Aceh Poll

Home Affairs Minister Gamawan Fauzi said on Tuesday that he was hopeful the recent resolution to a long-running spat over upcoming elections in Aceh would end pre-poll violence in the province.

“I hope there are no more incidents of violence,” he said. “I’m now talking with various sides to try to foster a calmer climate in Aceh.”


The lead up to the polls there, where voters will choose a governor, 13 district heads and four mayors, has been marred by a series of shootings and firebombings, many targeting politicians.

The Constitutional Court’s order last week to re-open the registration window for candidates has been seized on as a chance to end the spat between the commission and the Aceh Party.