Shamans support Hamengkubuwono X for president

The Jakarta Post ,  Jakarta   |  Mon, 01/05/2009 5:42 PM  |  National

A group of men claiming magical powers visited the regional elections commission (KPUD) office in Jember, East Java, on Monday and performed a ritual in support of Yogyakarta's king, Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, in this year's presidential election.

Five long-haired men in black garments burnt incense and read spells while holding krises and a box wrapped in a black cloth as they stood in front of the KPUD offices. At the end of the ritual, Gus Liliek opened the box which contained a picture of the sultan.

"This is the future president and leader of Indonesia," he said as quoted by Antara. Gus said heaven had told them Hamengkubuwono X, currently serving as governor of Yogyakarta, was to be the chosen leader.

The event attracted attention from the office staff and dozens of passersby. KPUD chair Sudarisman said his office saw no need to disperse the men.

"We consider the performance entertaining, it's kind of refreshing," he said.

A few months ago Hamengkubuwono announced he would be running for the presidency. He, however, has not joined any political party to garner broader support. (dre)
 

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