Election funds allegedly misused

TANGERANG: A number of non-governmental organizations grouped in the Tangerang NGO Komunike alleged on Wednesday that funds were misappropriated in the recent mayoral election.

NGO Komunike chairman Imron Hamami said they suspected a misuse of funds because the election committee had yet to file an accountability report on the use of Rp 2.2 billion (US$258,883).

"The committee said they allocated Rp 100 million of the funds for meals during the election on Nov. 16, but that was during the Ramadhan fasting month. It also said it spent another Rp 60 million for media, but the media said they were not paid until election day," he said.

Imron said NGO Komunike would soon meet with the election committee to seek clarification of the matter.

Wahidin Halim was elected mayor and Deddy Safei deputy mayor. -- JP