ABOUT 5,000 people crowded Banggai’s town square in Central Sulawesi, on New Year’s Eve. A musical band and modern dances perked up the event taking place at the Banggai Palace. Just like in a television program, there was a political message in between the entertainment numbers.

On the stage Rachmad Ibaad, the New Year celebration-organizing committee head, made a speech. “There’s no choice: The regency’s capital should be in Banggai