Ghalib may continue as PGSI chief

JAKARTA (JP): Former attorney general Andi M. Ghalib said on Monday he was likely to retain his post as chairman of the Indonesian Wrestling Association (PGSI), despite claims of his alleged involvement in corrupt activities.

After meeting on Monday with chairman of the National Sports Council (KONI) Wismoyo Arismunandar, a fit and healthy looking Ghalib said his assignment to continue chairing the wrestling body until 2003 would depend on a decision by Wismoyo.

"Insya Allah (God Willing). It depends on him and the development of the current situation," he said indicating Wismoyo.

Wismoyo had earlier requested Ghalib stay on as PGSI chairman.

The three-star general, who temporarily stepped aside from his post as attorney general during an investigation into alleged corruption, said the controversial PGSI bank account had not been frozen following the announcement of the investigation.

Ghalib was replaced by acting Attorney General Ismudjoko.

"I have given my authority to the Military Police Commander, and to Wismoyo to inspect my accounts at PGSI. I'm open to the investigation," he said.

Ghalib came under the spotlight after the Indonesian Corruption Watch (ICW) disclosed in early June that Rp 450 million (US$67,000) was transferred in April to Ghalib's account by tycoons The Nin King and Prajogo Pangestu.

The organization also alleged Rp 1.8 billion was transferred to accounts in the name of Ghalib and his wife, Andi Murniati, and that 11 deposits were made to their accounts between Feb. 12 and May 16 at a private bank in South Jakarta.

Ghalib has denied taking bribes from the two businessmen, claiming the money was a contribution to PGSI. Nin King and Prajogo are suspected to have given bribes to Ghalib while under investigations for banking violations by the Attorney General's Office.

Both tycoons were named as suspects by the Jakarta Police and were questioned. But earlier this month Military Police Commander Maj. Gen. Djasri Marin said Ghalib had not been named as suspect in their investigations.(ivy)