President Asks Minister for Focus on Work during Elections

Jakarta (Antara) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has asked the United Indonesia II cabinet ministers to focus on the implementation of the work program during the legislative election preparation. "We will prepare for the legislative election, but our duties as government should not stop or be disturbed. All duties and work should be done and issues resolved as and when required," stated the President, when he declared the limited cabinet meeting open at the Presidential Office in Jakarta on Friday. Implementation of local government laws and other laws under the Interior Ministry, were discussed during the meeting. Among those who attended the meeting, were Coordinator Minister of Politic, Law and Security Djoko Suyanto, Interior Minister Gamawan Fauzi, State Secretary Minister Sudi Silalahi, Cabinet Secretary Dipo Alam and others. The President pointed out that it was important to check law implementations to gauge the achievements. "If laws are not implemented, then the people will not feel the results, for example, the law of villages," he elaborated. The President also explained that there were several bills that are currently awaiting discussion by the government and House of Representative. "For example, the bills on regional head election and on local governments," he pointed out. The President hoped that the legislator will prepare for the legislative election, as also expedite discussions on a number of bills. (*) Reporting by Panca Hari Prabowo and M Arif Iskandar.