J.E. Habibie quits post in bid to support brother

JAKARTA (JP): Junus Effendi Habibie tendered his resignation Saturday as head of the Batam Industrial Development Authority in a bid to quiet accusations of nepotism toward his elder brother, President B.J. Habibie.

"I have conferred my resignation to the President of the Republic of Indonesia," Junus said yesterday.

Junus issued a media statement Saturday saying he had tendered his resignation.

Junus, popularly known as Fanny, took over Batam's top position from President Habibie a little more than two months ago when the latter was appointed the country's vice president.

"I asked to resign because I want to support the government in eradicating nepotism (within the administration). My decision is final," he said.

Junus, who served as Indonesia's ambassador to the United Kingdom from 1993 to 1997, said his brother accepted his resignation.

He described his elder brother as being "touched" by his willingness to step down from the post, adding that the President appreciated his "sacrifices".

He said it was his "moral obligation" to support calls for reform and the eradication of collusion, corruption and nepotism that led him to take the decision.

His statement yesterday came amid growing public concern relating to issues concerning nepotism slapped on President Habibie and his family.

Habibie over the past few years has presided over state industries and agencies which have consumed trillions of rupiah in public funds.

Habibie's sons and other relatives have also secured key positions in state businesses and agencies.

Yesterday, Junus called on all of his family members and all government officials' family members who seemingly attained jobs through family connections to follow his example by resigning from their respective posts. (aan)