Sherly Tjoanda Ready To Replace The Late Husband Benny Laos As A Candidate For Governor Of North Maluku

The late Benny Laos with his wife Sherly Tjoanda / DOK via Instagram @benny.laos

Sherly Tjoanda admitted that she was ready to become a candidate for the Governor of North Maluku to replace her husband, Benny Laos, who died in a ship fire incident.

This was revealed by Sherly when met by the General Chairperson of the NasDem Party, Surya Paloh, who expressed his condolences directly. Surya asked Sherly to consider continuing his candidacy for Benny Laos in the 2024 Pilkada.

"I ask you to think about continuing the struggle if you feel right, as well as the family feels right, that it is Mother who replaces the late Benny," said Surya, Tuesday, October 15.

Responding to the offer, Sherly firmly stated her readiness. "I am ready to proceed, Mr. Surya Paloh. Please support her," replied Sherly.

In the conversation, Surya expressed his condolences and appreciated Sherly's support for her late husband so far.

"I hope you can let Benny go, and I appreciate what you have been doing to accompany the deceased," said Surya

Eight political parties (political parties) carrying the pair of candidates for Governor/deputy Governor of North Maluku (Malut) Benny Laos-Sarbin Sehe previously agreed that Sherly Tjoanda would replace Benny as a candidate for governor of North Maluku.

The eight central administrators who had held a meeting to accept Sherly Tjoanda's proposal as a replacement for Benny Laos followed by the Nasdem Party DPP elite, PKB, Democrats, PAN, PPP, Gelora PSI and the Labor Party.

The tragic incident that claimed the life of Benny Laos occurred on October 12, 2024, when the speedboat they were traveling in caught fire while refueling at Bobong Regional Port, Taliabu Island Regency. Benny Laos died at the Bobong Hospital, while Sherly survived the incident.

Benny Laos previously served as Regent of Morotai (2017-2022) and is one of the popular figures in North Maluku.