Minister silent on political bill

JAKARTA: Home minister Hari Sabarno refused on Tuesday to give an explanation on the background behind the drafting of the highly debated bills on political parties and election.

"I will explain it during the deliberation of the bills," Hari said during a hearing with legislators.

He was responding to a query from Golkar legislator Yahya Zaini, who said that an explanation from the minister was needed before the deliberation began.

There has been public debate regarding numerous controversial issues in the bills, including campaign funds, the election commission and political rights for the military.

Legislators were expected to form a special committee to deal with deliberation of the bills on July 1.

The deliberation will be started as soon as the People's Consultative Assembly completes its amendment of the Constitution. - JP