Ani Yudhoyono Says She Never Intervenes Cabinet

Jakarta (Antara Bali) - First Lady Ani Yudhoyono stated here, on Thursday that she has never been involved in the affairs of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's administration and cabinet.

"I have never interfered with the affairs of the cabinet," she assured at the state palace during her address at the plenary meeting of the association of wives of cabinet ministers and high ranking officials (SIKIB).

She pointed out that she had also never attended a cabinet meeting, adding that the only meeting that she always attended was the SIKIB meeting that is held annually.

SIKIB operates in social and humanitarian fields based on five pillars namely Indonesia Smart, Indonesia Healthy, Indonesia Green, Indonesia Creative and Indonesia Cares.

At the meeting, the chairperson and coordinators explained the implementation of SIKIB programs.

Before starting the meeting SIKIB members clicked a group photo. First Lady Ani Yudhoyono specially asked for a photo record of the event for posterity, since they will soon end their tenure this year.

President Yudhoyono will end his term as president this year following the presidential election scheduled on July 9. He is not legally permitted to seek reelection because he has held office for two terms. (*/DWA)