TNI not to support retired generals` wish to contest in polls

Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Army Chief of Staff Gen Agustadi Sasongko Purnomo said the Indonesian military (TNI) will never support retired generals` wish to contest in gubernatorial, district head and presidential polls.

"There is no such support. We remain neutral. And none of them has asked for support because it is politically not allowed," he said here on Tuesday.

He said retired generals had the same rights as other citizens to possess and exercise their political rights.

"Therefore, it is quite proper if they nominate themselves for the posts of president, district head and the like. Go ahead. However, we will remain neutral," he said.

Chief of the People`s Conscience Party (Hanura) Wiranto said the get-together did not discuss political issues related to retired generals` participation in a number of regional head elections.

"A regional head election is a political practice. It is already clear that the TNI particularly the Army will remain neutral. Neither have we asked for support from them," he said.(*) end