Probe into governor demanded

KENDARI, Southeast Sulawesi: Activists from 12 non- governmental organizations urged on Monday the Southeast Sulawesi Prosecutor's Office to continue investigating alleged vote-buying by the elected governor, Ali Mazi.

They also demanded a probe into councillors who reportedly accepted money from Ali Mazi and Yusran Silondae to win their candidacy as governor and deputy governor for the 2003-2008 term.

Police have cleared the elected governor and deputy governor of accusations of bribery.

The prosecutor's office should also investigate legislators involved in the case, the activists added.

Meanwhile an official at the prosecutor's office, Salahuddin Manahawu, said his office needed more evidence before it could go ahead with the investigation into the alleged vote-buying.

La Upe Rasyid, a provincial councillor who was killed in a recent traffic accident, had admitted to receiving money prior to the gubernatorial election. -- Antara