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

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)