Informant law a must

The fate of Khairiansyah Salman (a Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) auditor who recently blew the whistle on the General Elections Commission (KPU) for alleged corruption, which led to KPU member Mulyana W. Kusumah's arrest by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), has stunned all who want to see Indonesia free of corruption.

As reported by nearly all media, BPK chief Anwar Nasution's emotional reaction to his auditor's actions outraged many people, including Vice President Jusuf Kalla, who justified the reporting of any alleged corrupt practices by any citizen.

Almost every Indonesian knows Anwar Nasution as a champion of the anticorruption drive, especially when he became Bank Indonesia deputy governor and immediately labeled the bank a "nest of thugs". His negative reaction to his auditor's behavior has reversed people's view about him, and put Khairiansyah's career at risk.

In addition, Mulyana's case has put Khairiansyah and his family at risk, leaving him, his wife and children virtually confined to their house. They are afraid to go out. As a result, KPK vice chairman Erry Riana Hardjapamekas, on behalf of the KPK, asked the police to protect Khairiansyah and his family. Policemen guard his house every day (Indo Pos, April 19).

The actions of Khairiansyah, and the "negative" reactions he received, mainly from his superior, illustrates the need for the speedy passage of the "whistle-blower bill" currently being debated by the House of Representatives.

Another crucial bill that will help combat corruption is the Freedom of Information bill, which is also awaiting approval by the House.

M. RUSDI, Jakarta