Richard Tampubolon, Kristomei Sianturi arrive at Istana
Kristomei is rumored to replace Suharyanto as BNPB chief, while Richard is linked to the deputy defense minister post.
TNI Chief of General Staff Lt. Gen. Richard Tampubolon and XXI/Radin Inten Military Commander Maj. Gen. Kristomei Sianturi arrived at the Jakarta Presidential Palace on Thursday (15/10) afternoon ahead of the swearing-in of new officials. Both wore full dress uniforms; Richard was accompanied by his family. Richard declined to answer details about reports that he would be assigned as deputy defense minister and only said, “Doakan yang terbaik.” Kristomei also said he did not yet know what position he would take, although he had been summoned to the Istana by the President. Among reporters, word circulated that Kristomei would be sworn in as head of the National Disaster Management Agency, BNPB, replacing Lt. Gen. TNI Suharyanto. Both said they were ready to accept new assignments.