Soppeng regent sued over Rp 1.39b graft allegation
Andi Hajramurni, The Jakarta Post, Makassar, South Sulawesi | Mon, 09/20/2010 6:45 PM
The Soppeng branch of the People's Aspiration Network (Jarak) in Makassar, South Sulawesi, filed lawsuit Monday against Soppeng Regent Andi Soetomo over his possible involvement in graft case that allegedly caused Rp 1.39 billion (US$154,995) in state losses.
Besides filing the case to the Makassar High Prosecutors Office, the members of Jarak, who are students from various universities in Makassar, also held a rally in front of the office.
The protesters said Andi had allegedly committed corruption by disbursing Rp 1.39 billion of aid to vendors at Cabengge market during his first term as a regent in last December.
“The funds were distributed from the Soppeng administrative budget without a decree from the regent. The regent was only issued a direct disposition letter to SKPD [regional working unit]. It is an indication of graft,” one of the protesters, Akbar, said during the demonstration.
Responding to the protesters demands, the office vowed to summon Andi.
