The move comes ahead of parliamentary elections on 29 May which will be contested by President Suharto's ruling Golkar party and two other approved groups. The Election Commission says speeches should only contain a description of the party's program for the next five years. Citing the Jakarta Post, Reuters on 4 February reported that the central government here has told local governments to restrict major public gatherings ahead of the May general elections in order to lower the risk of violence. Reuters on 4 February reported that Prime Minister Alain Juppe said Tuesday that he was discussing with political parties the dates for elections due in 1998 and possible reforms in the regional poll system. Elections to the National Assembly are due in March 1998.
Regional elections are also due next year.
The Washington Post on 5 February reported that the Socialists had agreed to hold legislative elections in mid-April, nearly two years before their term in office expires. The February issue of the FEC Record in .pdf format. A report from Elections Canada. The maps and charts also add depth and texture to this fascinating publication.