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Jakarta
Paul Watson, Bureau Chief
Paul Watson took up the Jakarta post at the end of 2006 after almost six years as South Asia bureau chief, based in New Delhi. Before that, he covered the Balkans from the Vienna bureau. Born in Toronto, Watson came to the Times from The Toronto Star, where he was based in Hong Kong and Johannesburg. Watson has received the Pulitzer Prize, the George Polk Award as well as the Robert Capa Gold Medal and Hal Boyle Award for international reporting from the Overseas Press Club of America, and three Canadian National Newspaper Awards. He also holds a master’s degree in International Affairs from Columbia University. EMAILThe Mujahedin Council wants to put an end to what it sees as Western depravity, including racy ads and beauty contests. But opponents say the bill threatens free expression.
Lawyers contend that death by shooting is inhumane. The high court will hear their petition, but officials want the executions done before Ramadan begins.
Muslim guerrillas are driven from Christian villages in the southern region of Mindanao, where fighting continues.
COLUMN ONE
Myanmar's famous comedy troupe, unable to publicly stage its satirical routines, still pokes fun at the ruling generals nightly at home. "Joking shares the suffering," says one member.
A Yangon music school steers clear of politics, but attracts government snoops because of its support from U.S. and other foreign donors.