Golkar accused of extorting regent

MUARA TEWEH, Central Kalimantan: North Barito Regent Badaruddin in Central Kalimantan has accused the Golkar Party of "deceiving" him in his bid for reelection.

"I sent Rp 200 million to the provincial chapter of Golkar on July 7, 2003 in order for the party to support me in the regental election. But it has decided not to back me," he said here on Monday.

Badaruddin said he was disappointed by the decision made in a Golkar meeting on Saturday.

Asked why he gave the Golkar the money, he said that based on the political party law, personal donations must not exceed Rp 200 million each.

Badaruddin said he gave the donation to meet the party requirements, which were stated when its local leaders interviewed him and other candidates.

He demanded that Golkar return the money. --Antara