Guess What? Sri Bintang Pamungkas

Guess What? Sri Bintang Pamungkas

Most Jakarta-based political reporters know Sri Bintang Pamungkas' skill in quick repartee.

The outspoken legislator, from the Moslem-based United Development Party, has been known to comment, sharply, on just about any subject, from shortcomings in the state budget, to the national electoral system, to freedom of the press.

It's the latter issue, however, which recently earned him both his seniors' wrath and the admiration of some members of the press.

Earlier this week, he criticized Finance Minister Mar'ie Muhammad after the minister told the press to be more careful about its reporting. Bintang immediately rose to the defense of the journalists, telling Mar'ie not to threaten the press. He and Mar'ie, who denied making any threats, became locked in argument.

Bintang is now under intense scrutiny from his party's leaders. He received some compensation, however, when dozens of reporters covering events in the House of Representatives gave him a lengthy standing ovation last Wednesday.

"Long live Bintang!" some reporters yelled.

Bintang raised both his hands, a gesture that was greeted by even louder applause.

"You won't last long in the House of Representatives!" one reporter predicted. (swe)