Soeharto clan fazed by probe into fortune

Soeharto clan fazed by probe into fortune

JAKARTA (JP): Former president Soeharto and his family would
not object to having their personal wealth investigated as long
as it was conducted by the Attorney General's Office, a relative
said yesterday.

"In my opinion, as a family member, Soeharto and his children
are ready to face investigation by the Attorney General's Office
(in order) to reveal (the origins of) their real wealth," said
Soeharto's half-brother Probosutedjo.

The successful businessman also said he had no objection to
having his own fortune -- allegedly obtained with special
facilities under Soeharto's regime -- by the Attorney General's
Office.

The office has the authority to examine government officials'
holdings, he added.

Probosutedjo was quoted by Antara as saying that the public
should relay any information they had on the family's wealth to
the Attorney General's Office instead of making public statements
which could foment disorder.

He decried what he considered the ingratitude of the nation
despite Soeharto's service.

"My impression is the nation cannot respect the service
rendered by Soeharto in the past. I regret this," he said.

Probosutedjo, owner of the Mercu Buana Group, dismissed Warta
Ekonomi weekly's report listing a huge web of companies that it
claimed belonged to Soeharto's family.

He also disagreed with statements that Soeharto's children
were consumed with greed during their father's time in power.

Asked about Soeharto's activities since his resignation last
week, Probosutedjo said the 77-year-old continued to play golf
and jog regularly. (rms)