Ex-regent charged with corruption

KENDARI, Southeast Sulawesi: Southeast Sulawesi High Prosecutor's Office head Antasari Azhar said on Monday that he has declared a former Kolaka regent a suspect in a graft case.

The suspect, who prosecutor's would only identify by his initials AB, is charged with misusing the 2002 budget. But it was not clear how much state money was involved.

"Based on testimonies by witnesses, there is sufficient evidence to lay charges against the former regent," Azhar said.

The charge was decided on Dec. 11 after prosecutors questioned another suspect, named only by his initial as NR, a former treasurer with the administration.

When asked about the new evidence against the former regent, Azhar refused to comment. --Antara