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Fight between two legislators interrupts funeral
A brawl erupted between two members of the legislature during at the funeral of a community leader in Jeneponto, South Sulawesi, on Sunday, after one reportedly took offense to being accused of corruption.
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Villagers and relatives gather as they prepare for a parade called Ma’ Palao during the traditional funeral ceremony Rambu Solo in La’Bo village, Toraja, South Sulawesi. (JP/Agung Parameswara)
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brawl erupted between two members of the legislature during at the funeral of a community leader in Jeneponto, South Sulawesi, on Sunday, after one reportedly took offense to being accused of corruption.
Muhtar Tompo, a Hanura Party member of the House of Representatives, fought with Syamsuddin Karlos, a National Mandate Party (PAN) member of the South Sulawesi Regional Legislative Council (DPRD), at the funeral of Supomo Guntur, a former Makassar deputy mayor in Bontomatene village.
According to kompas.com, the two were chatting among thousands of residents attending the funeral when their exchange became heated and turned physical, so much so that they had to be separated by mourners.
After the incident, the two legislators told reporters they had been discussing the Karaloe Reservoir development project located in Gowa district. The land acquisition process was being opposed by residents for not using standardized land prices.
"Suddenly he was offended and told me I did not understand the situation and tried to slap and kick me," Muhtar said.
(Read also: Wanted ex-legislator in Depok arrested for drug possession)
Syamsuddin said he took offense when Muhtar pointed out that money used to buy the land had been probably been taken by "ghosts,” suggesting corruption may have taken place.
"I was angry but I did not hit him. He’s the one who attacked me first by hitting my shoulders," he said.
The Karaloe Reservoir project is currently underway and is planned to be a source of water to irrigate Gowa and Jeneponto districts. (dis/wit)
