President summons ministers as tension heats up

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono summoned on Tuesday a number of high-ranking officials after the House of Representatives' plenary session on the Bank Century bailout descended to chaos amid violent rallies outside the legislative council building.

Among the officials were Vice President Boediono, who has been under the spotlight since the House launched a probe into the bailout, Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Djoko Suyanto, Coordinating Minister for the Economy Hatta Rajasa and Coordinating Minister for People's Welfare Agung Laksono.

Presidential spokesman Julian Aldrin Pasha told reporters afterward the four-hour meeting was intended to "ensure that the administration keeps moving on despite the ongoing political dynamics in the country."

"The President wants the government to keep running as usual, although the ongoing political dynamics can affect the effectiveness of the government policies," he said.

Julian denied that the meeting was specifically discussing the tension over the Century case, saying it was a regular weekly meeting to discuss current prominent issues.

He said the President would soon explain his views and stance on the bailout case.

He added the meeting did not comment on the chaotic House session and the violent protests.

Julian said last week the President would probably deliver his speech on the issue on Tuesday, but after the afternoon meeting the President headed to his private residence in Cikeas, West Java, without making any statement.

The meeting was held behind closed doors at State Guest House at the Presidential Palace complex.