Congress To Meet In Indonesia

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31091, 21 June 1966, Page 15

Congress To Meet In Indonesia

(N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) DJAKARTA, June 20. • Indonesia’s highest constitutional body, the Provisional People’s Congress, convened in Djakarta today amidst fluttering flags and intensive security provided by armed soldiers.

The strong security measures were to be the most unusual aspect of the Congress session.

Some 15 battalions of troops have been moved into the city as guards. The action apparently came after reports that extremist elements had moved into the city and might attempt to stir up demonstrations if the Congress sessioq does not proceed as the extremists might wish.

The extremists include both pro and anti-Sukarno forces, many coming from East and Central Java.

Expectations are also running high that President Sukarno may make a major announcement when he addresses the Congress on Wednesday. The Congress faces some crucial decisions to mould the country’s future after months of turmoil, A.A.P.-Reuter reported. These include: settlement

of confrontation against Malaysia; restoration of Indonesia’s crippled economy; and the status and powers of President Sukarno and Lieu-tenant-General Suharto, who assumed executive power under a decree promulgated on March 11. Generail Suharto has made clear he expects his powers to be ratified—and has said there was no plot to oust President Sukarno.