Official queried over election funds

KENDARI, Southeast Sulawesi: A government official here was detained by the local prosecutor's office for allegedly embezzling Rp 186 million (US$65,000) from the May general election fund.

Head of Kendari Prosecutor's Office Kamaruddin said that the 35-year-old official, identified only as AM, was liable under the 1971 Corruption Law which carries a maximum penalty of lifetime imprisonment or a maximum fine of Rp 30 million.

"We are still conducting an investigation, and we'll soon finish a dossier of him and submit it to the court," Kamaruddin was quoted by Antara as saying.

AM was an official at the local regency administration and treasurer of Kendari's election committee. (aan)