Former minister demands explanation over his dismissal

Former Maritime and Fishery Minister Fadel Muhammad continues to insist that State Secretary Sudi Silalahi must reveal the reasons behind his dismissal from the cabinet.

Sudi had previously said Fadel was replaced because he was “problematic”. He declined, however, to further explain the details of the manner of problems he had insinuated.

“After two years as Maritime and Fishery Minister, I am sure I do not have any legal problems related to my duties as minister,” Fadel said Saturday, as quoted by tempointeraktif.com.

Fadel said he accepted the President’s decision to replace him with Sharif Cicip Sutardjo because it was the President’s prerogative and right to replace his ministers.

Fadel objected, however, to Sudi’s statements, which characterized him as problematic without pointing out what problems he may have actually caused.

“It is nonsense. It could be slander, against me and my family. I suggest the state secretary maintain his ethics,” said Fadel.