Early screening for KPK hopefuls

Early screening for KPK hopefuls

JAKARTA: As many as 40 candidates for the Corruption
Eradication Commission (KPK) executive body are expected to
undergo the third and last interview for the five seats in the
commission on Saturday.

The KPK selection committee had announced that it would
accelerate the selection process due to time constraints. The
profile assessment was previously scheduled for next week.

The selection committee had planned to narrow the shortlist
down to 10 before it is given an authorization from the House of
Representatives on Dec. 12 because the commission must be
inaugurated by President Megawati Soekarnoputri on Dec. 27,
according to law.

However, it was rescheduled because President Megawati was
slated to go abroad for a state visit next month.

KPK chairman Romli Atmasasmita said that the accelerated
schedule would not harm the selection process.

KPK has been dubbed a "super body" as it would have the
authority to investigate and prosecute corruption cases, a
privilege earlier assumed by prosecutors and police only.

KPK may also take over the investigation and prosecution by
the two law enforcing institutions. --JP