30,000 soldiers deployed
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The Indonesian army is deploying 31,370 soldiers to secure today's presidential election, chief spokesman Brig-General Andika Perkasa said.
“The order was given by Indonesian Military (TNI) commander [General Moeldoko] through a telegram on April 2,” army spokesperson Andika said.
The soldiers are seconded to the National Police.
Andika said the soldiers were from all military commands, the army’s Strategic Reserves Command and the army’s Special Forces Command.
Separately, Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle secretary-general Tjahjo Kumolo said he was expecting the TNI and National Police to maintain neutrality and unity. “Let no one drag the TNI and Polri to fight each other like in the early Reform era. It is time for Polri to take stern action by arresting anyone who is involved in money politics, intimidation and transaction for C6 forms [voting invitations],” he said.
