856e.01/9–2048: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia (Livengood) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 20—11:04 a. m.]
806. Muso and Communist Party have seized power in Madiun and established there a so-called Soviet Government under his leadership, according to 20 minute radio broadcast last night by Sukarno from Jogja as reported to Consulate General by one recipient of broadcast. [Page 354] Sukarno called on all Republicans for support and said whoever seized Muso would help save Republic. Martial law reported declared affecting all vital industries in Republic territory. On same subject Aneta indicated attack was made Saturday morning and rebels entrusted Vice Mayor of Madiun, Soepardi, with civil military administration of the town. Aneta states this confirmed by document signed by chairman of SOBSI, head of local Communist Party Islam, chairman of Madiun Labor Party and others.
Following additional details from Aneta. Unidentified station Republican territory broadcast several instructions from the “regional administration of Madiun” saying Colonel Djokosoejono been appointed military governor Madiun. Colonel Djokosoejono has named Major Moestapa, battalion commander of law and order town of Madiun. Furthermore all commanders army and people’s army been instructed report Monday morning. A Republican Government communiqué Sunday said “government using all available means restore its legal authority in Madiun.” Later in evening President Sukarno, Sultan Hamengkubuwono, General Sudirman and Sukiman spoke over Jogja radio in succession. President Sukarno in broadcast branded Muso as a traitor and laid price on his head. Coup d’état in Madiun and fighting in Solo are but an attempt to topple the government, he said. Meanwhile General Sudirman has appointed Colonel Sungkono as the commander of east Java with authority over its defense. Consulate General will report developments as promptly as possible.
Sent Department 806; Department pass Hague.1
- This was done the same day.↩