Akbar, guilty but determined

Akbar, guilty but determined

From Gatra

Owing to his undue love of his position and party, House of Representatives (DPR) Speaker Akbar Tandjung, who has been convicted of graft, firmly maintains the attitude that he is innocent. He feels he reserves the right to function as House speaker.

Several of his Golkar Party supporters support his leadership. In their view, whatever happens, Akbar must be protected, defended, considered clean and worthy of the post of DPR speaker. In this way, there is solidarity among his cronies toward Akbar, whom they see as being condemned.

When he was tried and sentenced, Akbar was at the helm of the legislative body, therefore it is assumed he should be wiser than the people he represents. Therefore, he should now set a good example and act like a teacher whose behavior is worthy of emulating.

Akbar's wrongdoing is in fact obvious: there was a proposal in his name to help the poor but the aid failed to reach its target though the fund was disbursed. He knew he was responsible for it.

At least he was aware of the check worth Rp 40 billion for a purpose under his charge, but he has refused to acknowledge this. According to him, a foundation had passed on the aid, which was not the case. The fund, later returned, proved this.

As a law abiding citizen Akbar should serve the prison term. He deserves judicial as well as political punishment. Our country is in a position to punish its guilty leaders.

SUPRIYANTO, Bekasi, West Java