Ghalib may continue as PGSI chief

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)