President recognizes Hendarman, Djoko services

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has lauded former Attorney General Hendarman Supandji and former Indonesian Military commander Gen. (Ret.) Djoko Santoso over their services to the nation.

The two former high officials were invited to Monday’s Cabinet plenary meeting in Jakarta to receive direct recognition from the President over their achievements.

“Especially to Pak Hendarman, I highly appreciate your persistence in upholding the law. I still remember your hard work in  fighting against corruption when leading a team to eradicate graft activities over two years,” said Yudhoyono as quoted by kompas.com.Yudhoyono also applauded Hendarman’s efforts in conducting internal reformation at the Attorney General's Office.

The President also delivered his recognition to Djoko’s works on continuing an internal reformation in the military, maintaining the institution’s neutrality during 2009’s general elections, and building good relationships with neighboring countries.

Djoko retired last Friday, replaced by former Navy chief of staff Adm. Agus Suhartono.

On Sept. 24, Yudhoyono decided to uphold a Constitutional Court ruling by removing Hendarman Supandji from his post as attorney general.

The dismissal was based on the Court’s decision to partially grant a judicial review requested by former minister and graft suspect Yusril Ihza Mahendra, who said Hendarman’s tenure had ended with that of the President’s first Cabinet in 2009.

Former deputy attorney general Darmono was appointed as the acting attorney general.