Researchers stand trial for striking lecturer

Theresia Sufa, The Jakarta Post, Bogor

Two brothers, both researchers at the University of Indonesia stood trial at the Cibinong District Court on Wednesday for punching a fellow lecturer who was standing between the two and their father's opponents.

Defendants Herryansah Iberamsjah, 29, a researcher in social and political studies, and Nirwansyah Iberamsjah, 23, a researcher in law and technology, are charged with attacking a lecturer Reny Chandriachsja Suwarso, 38, of the School of Social and Political Studies.

Prosecutor Kosasih argued that the two were guilty of violating Article 351 of the Criminal Code on assault. If found guilty, the two could face a maximum punishment of 32 months in prison.

The case revolves around the rejection by lecturers and students of the appointment of Iberamsjah senior, the brothers' father, as head of Political Studies Department on Sept. 23, 2003, which they said was not in accordance with regulations.

According to witnesses, demonstrating students consulted Reny as to whether they could attend the installment ceremony that day, who asked them to be quiet while inside the hall.

As Reny approached security guards to ask whether the students could come inside the hall, he ran into Herryansah who suddenly hit him. At the same time, Nirwansyah attacked two students: Rheinhard Sirait and Yudi Fajar M. Wahyu.

Presiding judge Djoko Suseno adjourned the trial until April 14 to hear more witnesses.