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