NGOs demand speedy probe

SEMARANG: The central government should expedite a probe into an alleged corruption case involving Temanggung Regent Totok Ary Prabowo, representatives of 35 Non-Governmental Organizations said on Tuesday.

"In order to speed up the probe, the central government has to issue a permit that will allow police to investigate the regent," group spokesman Irianto said.

Totok has been accused of allegedly embezzling Rp 11.6 billion (US$1.28 million) from the region's 2004 election fund.

Central Java Governor Mardiyanto said police had already spoken with 20 district heads, seven members of the General Elections Commission (KPU) and four former councillors regarding the case. -- JP