SBSI chief back on his feet

SBSI chief back on his feet

MEDAN, North Sumatra: Muchtar Pakpahan, the chairman of the
outlawed SBSI union who collapsed while reading his defense in
court last week, is back on his feet although he remains
hospitalized.

Muchtar was seen walking about his room at the Pirngadi
general hospital in Medan but no one, not even his in-laws, have
been permitted to see him, according to the Antara news agency.

His room and its vicinity are closely guarded by security
officials who are under strict orders not to let anyone come near
him, Antara said quoting hospital officials.

Muchtar is being tried in connection with the massive workers'
riot in Medan last April. The government is charging him with
inciting the workers to commit violence. (emb)