BUGISWARTA.COM, Friday, November 8, 2024 – The Gerindra Party, through its members of the Regional Representative Council (DPRD) at the provincial and district levels across Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT), stepped in to deliver essential supplies to residents affected by the ongoing eruptions of Mount Lewotobi.
Since Sunday, November 3, 2024, Mount Lewotobi has been erupting, and the volcanic activity continued through Friday afternoon, November 8, 2024. The eruptions forced residents of 18 villages in Wulanggitang and Ile Bura sub-districts to seek shelter in various evacuation sites.
In response, Gerindra Party representatives from East Flores (Flotim) quickly mobilized to deliver aid directly to the independent evacuation points. Led by Yuven Hikon, Head of the Gerindra Fraction in DPRD, and joined by fellow members Andi Liwun, Abdul Hamid, and other party functionaries, including the Deputy Secretary of NTT Gerindra DPD, Theresia Krowin, the team distributed relief packages.
The first distribution took place at the Ile Gerong Village Office, followed by Kobasoma, Lewolaga, and Lewoingu villages. Yuven Hikon expressed Gerindra’s empathy and commitment to supporting the victims, stating, “This aid, facilitated by Gerindra representatives at both provincial and district levels, reflects our heartfelt compassion for those affected by the Lewotobi eruption. We share in their suffering, especially as many have lost their homes and, tragically, lives.”
The aid packages consisted of essential supplies, including rice, bottled water, instant noodles, bathing soap, laundry detergent, eggs, and cooking oil. Hikon emphasized that their focus was directed towards independent evacuees, who often face challenges in accessing relief.
“We prioritize the independent evacuees because their access to aid is limited. We aim to provide support in these areas,” Hikon noted.
Wis Kean, Secretary of the East Flores Gerindra branch, expressed gratitude for the party’s swift response, affirming that the Lewotobi tragedy resonates with everyone, especially with Gerindra members across NTT. “We thank the DPD and all DPC members across NTT for assisting our community here. We hope for continued support, as many still need help,” Kean stated.
Theresia Krowin, Deputy Secretary of Gerindra DPD NTT, highlighted the moral obligation that drives Gerindra’s actions, aligning with the Lamaholot cultural values of mutual support.