He said that his ministry is coordinating with the police and the National Police's anti-terror squad Special Detachment 88 (Densus 88) to investigate the speedboat accident that killed Laos and his entourage during a campaign activity.
"We do not know the cause. Do not be provoked by issues that can divide society and cause conflict," he added in a statement issued by his office on Monday.
Karnavian remembered Laos as a good and friendly figure.
According to the minister, Laos had a strong vision to improve the condition of society and make it more prosperous when he served as head of the Morotai Island district.
Laos' presence in the district led to changes, including infrastructure development and assistance for the people, Karnavian noted.
Laos once told the minister that he did not want to misuse the regional budget. As a businessman, Laos said, he had his and his family's material needs covered.
"He said he wanted to make the community better and more prosperous. That is all that motivates him," the minister recalled.
He then emphasized that the regional elections will take place on schedule.
The replacement process of gubernatorial candidates who die before the election is regulated in the law.
Karnavian said that the regional election schedule has been determined by the General Election Commission (KPU). He also reminded the public to maintain a conducive situation while monitoring the democratic process.
"The show must go on. The regional election shall continue. There will be a mechanism for candidates who passed away. Please continue to look for good leaders in North Maluku," he added.
Laos, 52, died on Saturday (October 12, 2024) after the Bella 72 speedboat that he boarded caught fire at the Bobong village port in Taliabu Island district.
Five others died in the speedboat fire: a member of the North Maluku Legislative Body from the Democratic Party, Ester Tanri; North Maluku-based United Development Party (PPP) leader, Mubin A. Wahid; and three police officers.
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Translator: Narda Margaretha S, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2024
