Bintang files lawsuit

JAKARTA (JP): Controversial politician Sri Bintang Pamungkas filed a lawsuit with the Jakarta State Administrative Court yesterday asking that he be reinstated as a member of the House of Representatives.

A draft of the lawsuit, made available to the press, did not name President Soeharto as the defendant, but asked the court to revoke a May presidential decree that led to Bintang's formal dismissal from the House.

Bintang, who is represented by lawyers from the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation, said his dismissal violated House's procedures and that he has suffered material and non-material losses, including his good name, as a result.

Bintang was an elected member of the House representing the United Development Party. His dismissal was initiated by party leaders who felt that he had gone against the party's official line on many issues.

He is asking for Rp 5 million ($2,200) in compensation.

The politician is currently being investigated by police for allegations that he attacked the credibility of President Soeharto during a speech in Germany in March. (emb)