BIN chief told to refrain from making confusing statements

BIN chief told to refrain from making confusing statements

The House of Representatives Speaker Agung Laksono on Friday asked the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) to refrain from making confusing statements.

"Don't lay blame, but bring evidence," Agung said.

Agung was allegedly responding to comments made by BIN chief Syamsir Siregar, who said the protests against the government's plan to raise fuel prices were masterminded by retired ministers and state officials.

Separately, former House speaker Akbar Tandjung said it was too early to say whether or not people were masterminding the protests, which have been mainly organized by university students.

"In fact, the people know too well that raising fuel prices would also increase basic commodity prices," he said.

"The students are concerned and they have expressed this by staging protests. Such sensitivity is normal."

He warned students and the public to be aware of other parties trying to capitalize on their efforts.

"The government should also inform the public of the reasons behind fuel price plan," he said. (****)