Protests against ABRI's dual function

Protests against ABRI's dual function

PADANG, West Sumatra (JP): About 500 students from nine
universities staged a peaceful protest against the Armed Forces
(ABRI) sociopolitical role at the local legislature here on
Monday.

Students read out the "Andalas Declaration" also demanding the
government step up investigations into the allegations against
former president Soeharto that he amassed fortunes worth
trillions of rupiah during his 32-year rule.

Students also called for the establishment of an independent
election monitoring committee. Soeharto's successor, President
B.J. Habibie, has promised new elections in May next year.

Deputy speaker of the provincial legislature, Surya Warsilah,
promised to convey the declaration to the House of
Representatives in Jakarta. (28/byg)