The need to consult a cardiac expert

The unexpected death of attorney general Baharuddin Lopa was a shock to many people, in particular supporters of President Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid and even the President himself.

Upon assuming office, Lopa was seen and proved to be one of the President's staunchest, if not most fanatical supporters. The media in Australia almost all agree that Lopa's death will prove to be a considerable setback in the fight against corruption. Attorney general Lopa announced he would tackle the problem of corruption indiscriminately, without fear or favor, even if this meant going after the speaker of the House of Representatives, the Vice President's inner circle or former strongman Soeharto.

No doubt Lopa had his mind firmly set on catching the elusive son of Soeharto, Tommy, who has incredibly disappeared in the crowd like a latter-day Houdini.

I am not writing to comment on Lopa's death itself, but more on the fact that he did not know that he had a problem with his heart. He could have consulted an expert in Indonesia to look after his cardiac problems, which were so serious they caused his sudden death when he was most needed by the people.

I have suffered from a cardiac problem myself, for which I have gone to Australia (Perth) for treatment. I do not need a heart transplant or an artificial heart, and after 10 days I feel better and hope to return to Indonesia next week to continue my letter writing.

I suggest that those in the government in charge of catching corruptors consult a cardiac expert before it's too late.

I sometimes wonder why President Abdurrahman Wahid, who is facing impeachment by the People's Consultative Assembly and with his sight impaired, can still walk around, at least until August next month.

GANDHI SUKARDI

Jakarta