Regental Election

Ismet Iskandar resumes post as Tangerang regent

Multa Fidrus
The Jakarta Post Tangerang

Incumbent Tangerang regent Ismet Iskandar and running mate actor Rano Karno won the regency's first direct election with 826,534 votes, the poll commission announced Saturday (see photo).

The final count was held at the multifunction hall in Tigaraksa, attended only by candidate Usamah Hisyam (middle, left photo).

Usamah and running mate Habib Alwi Al Husaini came in last with 66,216 votes, while legislator Jazuli Juwaini and running mate Airin Rachmi Diany got 575,485 votes.

Although witnesses representing Jazuli and Airin refused to sign off on the final results, the commission said they were valid.

"Each candidate can file their objections to the result within the next three days. Meanwhile, the commission will submit it to the regency legislative council for approval and prepare for the swearing-in ceremony," Tangerang Elections Commission chairman Jamaludin said.

The election took place peacefully on Jan. 20 despite accusations of irregularities. Only 1.50 million out of 2.26 registered voters cast their ballots, with 34,814 votes declared invalid.

Although accusing Ismet for abusing position to mobilize voters, Usamah said he had handed his campaign platform for the elect regent to adapt.

"We would also propose for a revision in the election law to make sure that incumbent administration heads running in the election must take leave at least three months before the election day," he added. (January 28, 2008)