President Yudhoyono Bids Farewell

Reporting by Panca Hari Prabowo Sentul, West Java (Antara) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono bade farewell to provincial governors, district heads and city mayors from across Indonesia in a meeting held here on Wednesday. "I thank all the people of Indonesia, especially the government officials, for their cooperation. I also express my special thanks for the smooth implementation of the fourth general elections, which the world has been praising for its fairness and democratic values," he stated. President Yudhoyono, who is slated to hand over office to Joko Widodo on October 20, noted that in the next five days his presidency will end and Indonesia will have a new president. "I apologize if my work so far has failed to meet your expectations. I have always wished to do my best. For the targets that I have not yet achieved, I apologize. I also apologize if I hurt you during the 10 years of my governance. I assure you, I never have had any ill will toward anyone," he remarked. He appealed to all regional leaders to support the new government as it was important for successful governance. "I hope all parties would fully support the new president and his government. With your support, the new government will certainly be able to carry out its tasks well," he added. "I wish you well in work and in serving the state and nation. I hope we achieve more glories. In the next five days, I will end my term and excuse myself," he stated. (*)