Beware of Akbar's maneuvers

Beware of Akbar's maneuvers

From Rakyat Merdeka

The scandal concerning Rp 40 billion in non-budgetary funds from the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) as disclosed by Rahardi Ramelan has further lengthened the list of graft and abuse of power by government officials of the New Order regime.

I don't think that the numerous acts of corruption during that era can be brought to justice, because there is a kind of mutual understanding between police officers, attorneys, judges and lawyers to save their colleagues.

I suggest that the above case be handled through a political process at the House of Representatives (DPR), as it will take less time and would fulfill the public's sense of justice.

The reason I recommend this is because a legal procedure will take longer, probably years, as each step of the way can be arranged: summoning, investigating, court sessions and reviews, and "backroom deals and negotiations" are always possible. Such "time buying" strategies might prolong the case up until the next general election in 2004.

Therefore, beware of Akbar Tandjung's strategy through his statement that the case is now being processed at the Attorney General's Office.

HARSONO SOEDIJONO

Depok, West Java