Official in hot water over protest

AMBON, Maluku: Maluku Governor M. Saleh Latuconsina has said he would discipline a provincial official who allegedly helped organize a protest march on the Tual council on Wednesday.

Latuconsina said he would not tolerate officials engaging in such rallies, saying they could disrupt security and order.

The official was only identified with the initials PR.

"I received a report from the Southeast Maluku regent that PR led a crowd of demonstrators to the local council.

"If the investigation finds that he was involved, then I will take stern action," the governor said here Saturday.

He did not say what kind of disciplinary action would be imposed, saying he would wait for the formal results of the investigation.

"I do not want employees with that kind of mentality. Civil servants must be obedient and disciplined in carrying out their duties. If they engage in acts which are disruptive, then stern action will be taken," Latuconsina warned.

The demonstration was held to demand the dismissal of several officials allegedly involved in corrupt practices.

According to Antara, Southeast Maluku regent Husein Rahayaan said in his report to the governor that PR organized and lead the protest.

Rahayaan said PR was a former employee at the regency public affairs office and was transferred to the provincial administration office for disciplinary reasons.