Slamet Susanto, Yogyakarta – The Gerindra Party has officially named Aryo Winoto, the nephew of the late president Soeharto, to run for the Bantul regent's office.
"All party elements have supported Aryo to run for the candidacy. Today we are officially naming him our candidate," head of Gerindra Party's Bantul branch, Purwanto, said on Thursday.
Aryo said he was grateful and promised to do his best during the election process. "I am grateful with this and promise to go all out in the competition," Aryo said.
Aryo Winoto is the son of the late Noto Suwito, the fifth sibling of Soeharto. Noto Suwito, who was head of Kemusuk subdistrict in Bantul, was known as Bantul's most prominent figure during his brother's 32-year tenure. Prospective officials had to win his blessing before running for office.
Aryo will run against the incumbent regent, Sri Surya Widati, and a police official, Sr. Comr. Priharsono, for the position. Direct elections are slated to take place next year. (dic)