Slander or courage?

On Thursday Adi Andojo Sutjipto, the Supreme Court deputy chairman who has been trying hard to get his disclosure of collusion validated, was questioned by the Special Supervision Coordinator, Korwassus. Among those who are believed to know about the collusion case involving the Gandhi Memorial School, Adi Andojo can be regarded a key witness.

And he is not merely a key witness. Adi Andojo was the first to demand that the case be brought into the open. He has since remained undaunted by accusations thrown at him by various parties -- including some of his own colleagues -- that his allegations are mere inventions and amounted to slander.

A speedy conclusion of the Korwassus examination is desirable for a number of reasons. First, this is a big case involving the most elevated judicial institution of state. A protracted probe would only give rise to various speculations and erode the Supreme Court's prestige.

Second, many details of the case have already been exposed by the media. The public is waiting to hear whether these details are true. Because some of the details involve individuals in the Supreme Court, honesty on the part of the investigating team is most desired. The public's respect for the Supreme Court will be bolstered if the investigations are conducted with impartiality and thoroughly, even though the outcome may be painful for the Supreme Court.

Third, the outcome of the examination will surely be of the greatest importance to Adi Andojo personally. An objective outcome will show whether he was right all along or whether he was merely being sensational, or even slanderous as his accusers say. If he is proven to be right he deserves to be appreciated. It is very difficult these days to find a person who is both courageous and honest.

-- Republika, Jakarta