Ruhut creates havoc during Century inquiry, again

Politician Ruhut Sitompul from the Democratic Party caused more havoc during the House of Representatives inquiry committee hearing of former vice president Jusuf Kalla on Thursday.

During the inquiry into the Bank Century bailout, Ruhut questioned Kalla in a stern tone and, at times, referred the latter, who is a native of Makassar, as "Daeng", a Bugis reference to "Sir".

Ruhut apparently upset a number of legislators.

"I feel very uncomfortable to hear someone address another using a cultural reference. Even though the intentions might be good, it could cause a lot of discomfort," Akbar Faisal from the People's Conscience Party (Hanura) said.

Andi Rakhmat from the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) said that he too was offended by Ruhut's remarks.

The hearing turned into a debate, which diverted the original goal of the inquiry, when Ruhut defended his behavior by continuously trying to interrupt other legislators who attempted to express their disappointment.

Ruhut's antics even upset chairman of the hearing Mahfudz Siddiq, one of the committee deputy chairmen, who is usually calm.

"Pak Ruhut! I want to remind you that all interruptions must go through the inquiry leadership table," he said, while banging his gavel several times.

After Mahfudz's brief warning, Ruhut apologized to Kalla.