SBY keeps Boediono & Sri Mulyani

President SBY sent strong signals to keep VP Boediono and finance minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati in the cabinet despite pressures from politicians, especially DPR's recommendation and conclusion on Century bailout.

SBY defended the bailout policy and praised both Boediono and Sri Mulyani Indrawati for making the right decision to save Indonesian economy from global financial meltdown.

Constitutional experts said the fact that the President's televised speech Thursday night (to defend both the policy and people behind the policy) rebuffed DPR's conclusion implies to the need to bring the issue to Constitutional Court. So, it's not (completely) over yet.

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Shall we close down Mutiara (Century)?

The House of Representatives (DPR) has finally concluded that the disbursement of short-term financing facility (FPJP from Bank Indonesia) and capital injection of Rp6.7 trillion into Bank Century (now Mutiara) were illegal. The question, should LPS pull out the funds from Bank Mutiara?

Pulling out the funds from Mutiara would mean closing down the bank, unless someone want to purchase the bank and inject huge amount of funds, right?

For sure, that's not one of the recommendations provided by DPR. But if the bailout was wrong and considered illegal, what is the status of the funds in Mutiara? Or we could raise a different question, if the funds in Mutiara will be kept (as a result of a bailout policy), can we say the bailout illegal? A friend said "that's a stupid question." Probably lawyers could provide better answer...

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Exchange Threats over Century

President SBY's special staff for legal affairs Denny Indrayana claimed one political party tried to exchange a legal case with softer tone on Century case investigation. Andi Arief and Velix Wanggai, SBY's other special staffs, "threatened" to file a police report on Muhammad Misbakhun, politician from Prosperous Justice Party (PKS).

"(We had reported the case) to Special Task Force to eradicate mafia in the judicial system. Our plan is to report the case to National Police," Andi Arief said. Well, they don't have to tell public about that. If they know someone committed crime, go straight to the police and provide evidences.

"One party was ready to change its stance in the Century case as long as the President is willing to negotiate on legal case," Denny said. It's better for Denny to publish the name of the party as well, otherwise his statement is worthless.

Earlier we had read ridiculous threats exchanged by politicians from SBY-Boediono's ruling coalition. Corruption on procurement of cows for the poor, allegation of bribery in the election of senior deputy governor, tax evasion allegation, etc. Bring them all to court! We're tired of statements. Actions speak louder!

Demokrat leader threatened to kick out members who are not loyal to the President. "Now we know who are friends and enemies," Amir Syamsyuddin, secretary general of Demokrat said. Well, then make up your mind!

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Boediono on resign rumor: Not that easy!

Rumors swirling around political elites that VP Boediono plans to resign due to the heat from Century case investigatio. But Boediono calmly responded, saying "I'm elected by people, to resign is not that easy."

Detik.com quoted Azyumardi, leader of Indonesian Moslem Intellectuals Association (ICMI), about their Q&A with the vice president. "We asked to the vice president about rumors out there that Mr Boediono wants to resign. He replied with question about the source of the rumor. But then the vice president said, "people elected me, so to resign would not be that easy."

Kompas.com quoted Azyumardi Azra with stronger words from Boediono, saying, "so, there is no intention to resign. The rumor is not true."

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Soros meets Boediono

George Soros, chairman of Soros Fund Management LLC and founder of The Open Society Institute, is scheduled to meet VP Boediono in Jakarta this morning. Boediono's spokesperson Yopie Hidayat confirmed the meeting to Tempointeraktif.com but disclosed no details about issues they would discuss.

Soros visited Indonesia several times in the past few years. "This is just a courtesy call. No specific agenda," Yopie said.

After the meeting, Soros indirectly defended government's decision to bailout Century. "Indonesia has walked out from difficult times successfully," Soros said. The money spent to bailout Century, he said, is nothing compared to the success to tame the financial crisis. Well, Boediono needs support like that. He has been widely blamed for the mess at Century. Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) politicians said Boediono is responsible for 80% of problems and violations related to Century.

Soros has been mentioned in various "deals" in Indonesia. The latest is about his "interest" to acquire Apexindo from Mitra Rajasa. In 2007, he met Aceh governor Irwandi Yusuf in New York, sparked speculation about his interest to invest in Aceh's mining sector. Last month, Robert Tantular, former controlling owner of the troubled Bank Century, told legislators that in 1999 he sold some of his shares in CIC Bank (one of three banks merged into Century, now Mutiara) to Quantum Fund controlled by Soros.

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Controversial writer named a suspect

George Aditjondro, researcher and controversial writer, whose last book Membongkar Gurita Cikeas rocked Indonesian politics (for a brief moment), has been named a suspect by Jakarta police. It's not because of the book's content. But because a report filed by Ramadhan Pohan, legislator from President SBY's Demokrat Party.

Ramadhan reported George to the police alleging George had slapped him in the face (literally) aftermath of a discussion about the controversial book in December 2009. In one chapter of the book, George pointed to Rp150 billion funds "invested' by Soenaryo Sampoerna (son of Boedi Sampoerna) in Jurnal Nasional, a newspaper widely known associated with President SBY and his Demokrat Party. Ramadhan was chief editor of the paper, while the First Lady's sister, according to George, is the key figure in the newspaper's operation.

George, reportedly losing control of his temper, suddenly raised his right hand and hit Ramadhan in the face using a copy of the book. Ramadhan then reported George for misconduct, which carries a maximum sentence of 32 months in jail or a Rp400,000 fine. George defended himself, saying that he wanted to stop Ramadhan's misconception of the book.

Well, a good reason to shift our attention from contents of the book.

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Sampoerna, Lin Che Wei, & SBY-Boediono?

Boedi Sampoerna is one of 2009 newsmakers. His over US$200 million funds at Century has become the target of various investigations. What is the relationship between Sampoerna and people in power?

Media reports pointed to Lin Che Wei, former CEO of Danareksa (state-owned investment bank) as "consultant" for Boedi Sampoerna and his son Soenarjo (his name is mentioned by George Aditjondro in his controversial book Gurita Cikeas in relation to Jurnal Nasional newspaper). Interestingly, Lin Che Wei was also an active member in SBY-Boediono campaign team. He was quoted by various media reports during the election for his support to Boediono as VP.

Koran Jakarta in its Sunday, May 31, 2009 edition wrote an article titled Ideologi Hanya Sebuah Permainan. In the article, Che Wei explained why he joined SBY-Boediono team. "They're both well respected by market and public," he said. Unfortunately the newspaper didn't explain in detail when Che Wei joined SBY-Boediono team.

Lin Che Wei once told Vivanews.com that Century bailout has nothing to do with "lobbies" from Boedi Sampoerna. In September 15, 2009, the online publication quoted Che Wei saying "one thing is clear, before Century bailout, I, as advisor, Boedi or his son Sunaryo Sampoerna, never lobbied anybody. Sampoerna family never asked bailout on Century."

In a press release dated January 29, 2009, published by Vivanews.com, three months after the bailout, Che Wei, in his capacity as representative of Boedi Sampoerna, said initially Boedi had difficulties in releasing his funds at Century, especially when the bank was controlled by Robert Tantular.

Boedi, according to recent reports, has withdrawn Rp385 billion out of US$200 million funds in Century. The House' special committee to investigate Century plans to dig deeper into the withdrawals.

Without the bailout, Sampoerna would have lost his US$200 million. But prior to the bailout, Century divided US$42.8 million of the funds into 247 accounts worth Rp2 billion each in anticipation of possible closing down of the bank. The question, why they stopped at US$42.8 million and not the whole US$200 million?

Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) grilled Boedi for almost nine hours yesterday. PDI-P legislators push DPR's special committee to investigate further the sub-plot of the Century case.

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Rafat & Hesham: Catch us if you can!

Rafat Ali Rizvi and Hesham al Warraq are business partners of Robert Tantular at the troubled Bank Century. They blame each other for the mess that led to the controversial US$700 million bailout. Robert has been sentenced five years prison, but Rafat and Hesham are living in peace out there. Some Indonesian journalists have even been invited to interview Rafat in Singapore where he repeatedly said: I want to come to Indonesia to settle the mess. Will they?

It's ridiculous, sometimes, to read media reports about Rafat. Some reported Rafat was willing to come but he is prevented from entering the country. Why would the country do that while Rafat and Hesham are classified "wanted persons"?

This week, Susno Duadji, former chief of police detectives, told the House' special committee to investigate Century case that Rafat once sent letters to Indonesian government about his willingness to repay the US$700 million bailout funds but failed to get satisfactory responds from finance ministry. But isn't this strange? If you have been charged of embezzling US$700 million, why would you come out and say "I will repay!"?

Looks like that these guys want to get the embezzled funds unlocked. Today Kompas reported that Rafat and Hesham could enter the country because they're only prevented from going out of the country. Of course they can, or "warmly welcomed to face the prosecution", to be exact.

AGO said trial on them will be done in absentia in Jakarta and can't accept their demands to have the trial in London, UK instead.

Indonesian police have identified over US$1 billion of assets controlled by Robert, Rafat, Hesham, and companies related to them in various countries. Police claimed that these assets have been frozen and that Indonesian government could only get these funds if they're convicted in crimes.

Two weeks ago, national newspapers published Rafat statement saying "he and Hesham were willing to testify before the House committee for Century investigation", but not in Jakarta. They want the Committee meet them in London instead. They accused Robert is the mastermind of all frauds at Century and that they're also the victims. Really?

Well, Bank Indonesia deputy governor Budi Rochadi said "Rafat is a thief." Former deputy governor Aulia Pohan, father in law of Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (son of President SBY), considers Rafat as the most dangerous person in the world. Rafat dropped a bomb late last year when he told reporters (in Singapore? Who invited? Who arranged?) that Robert Tantular financed the selection process for one of the officials at Bank Indonesia to become senior deputy governor.

Well...soon, Rafat and Hesham might be convicted in an in absentia court proceedings for a simple reason: We can't touch anybody hiding in SINGAPORE!!!!! Save INdonesians to Get Away from POlice arREsts!

PS: Hesham, born in Cairo, Egypt, April 12, 1958 is a Saudi Arabia citizen, while Rafat born in Pakistan, October 22, 1960 is a UK citizen.

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Sherlock Holmes on Susno Duadji

Susno Duadji used to play Sherlock Holmes when he was chief detective at the National Police. But yesterday, he was examined by 30 "Sherlock Holmes" of The House' special committee to investigate Century Bank case. As promised, he answered most questions related to Century owners and the flow of funds. It's just normal to get his statements responded with chorus of denials. What he said?

On the arrest of Robert Tantular, former owner of Century, Susno said Bank Indonesia filed police report only after police arrested Tantular upon the order of then VP Jusuf Kalla. VP Boediono's spokesperson Yopie Hidayat tried to clarify Susno's statement saying then Bank Indonesia governor Boediono had on November 20, 2008 asked finance minister Sri Mulyani to impose overseas travel ban on Tantular and his colleagues. Yopie shown journalist the copy of Boediono's letter to Sri Mulyani. Few minutes later, Susno told Committee members that Robert left Jakarta to Singapore in November 21, returned in November 23. Police arrested Robert in November 25 when he was about to fly to Singapore.

Fahri Hamzah, Committee member from Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) quickly "judged" Boediono had committed crime because he let someone (Tantular) committed crime. Well, may be too early to call.

On Sampoerna's money and alleged fees of Rp10 billion for him, Susno denied. He admitted someone did offer him such fees. "He said, nobody would know. Take some if you want, but I rejected," Susno said. Unfortunately, he didn't disclose the name of the guy. 

The flow of funds after the bailout?

Susno indirectly confirmed information about the flow of funds to a taxi driver in Ciputat (Rp24 billion, others reported Rp200 billion) and owner of a car workshop in Makassar (Rp33 billion). "That's right. This is strange, how come a driver received Rp24 billion. But this has to be investigated further," Susno said. 

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Susno on Lila Gondokusumo

Susno Duadji, former chief detective at National Police, admitted he met Boedi Sampoerna, the largest depositor at the troubled Bank Century, once, but that was due to an incident on Lila Gondokusumo. Boedi, according to Susno, asked police to release Lila, a former executive at Century.

"That time, he (Boedi) asked the beautiful detainee named Lila to be released," Susno told the House of Representatives' special committee to investigate Century case. Lila reportedly succeeded in having Boedi deposited huge amount of funds in Century.

"Even his son (Boedi's son) was there, he was furious and asked Lila to be released as well. But I rejected," Susno continued. Unfortunately, Susno didn't explain why Boedi and his son asked that or what kind of relationship they have with Lila.

Early last year, Susno actually disclosed about a steamy issue when he told legislators that "one of Century's depositors willing to loss Rp1 trillion as long as the police could release Lila from prison. The depositor said, if police agree, he won't chasing his Rp1 trillion funds at Century-related Antaboga scheme."

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Surprises from Susno Duadji examination?

Susno Duadji, the controversial former chief detective at National Police, promised a full disclosure in his first inquiry with the House of Representatives' investigation team on the Bank Century case today. He is summoned to clarify his relationship with Century's former owner, Robert Tantular, and one of the bank's largest depositors, Boedi Sampoerna. Online publications reported Susno has just published two books. One about himself in the eyes of journalists, and the other one on his review of Criminal Code.

So, this, hopefully, become a scene of "Sherlock Holmes on Sherlock Holmes". Susno will be asked about his role in the whole Century saga. He admitted yesterday that he arrested Tantular upon the order of then VP Jusuf Kalla, not based on the report filed by Bank Indonesia.

Susno is considered knowledgeable about Sampoerna's funds in Century, reportedly over US$200 million. Susno is also implicated in the allegation about US$1 million fees for his "help" to clarify the legal status of Boedi Sampoerna's US$18 million funds.

What the legislators will ask to Susno? Well, one of the legislators told Kompas.com that he would ask Susno's knowledge about why Sampoerna put over US$200 million in a relatively small bank with total assets less than US$1.5 billion?

Susno triggered a controversy when he appeared as a witness during the trial of former KPK Antasari Azhar. A bigger controversy is clearly his famous metaphor of "Cicak (gecko) vs Buaya (Crocodile)" in the war between Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and National Police behind the alleged fabrication efforts to frame two KPK deputy chairmen Chandra M. Hamzah and Bibit Samad Rianto with bribery.

What Susno said about Robert Tantular?

"He embezzled Rp1.29 trillion from Century's depositors," Susno said.

Where Tantular puts the money?

"In Jersey, we found US$16.5 million, in Cuba US$14.8 million, Bermuda US$7.227 million, Switzerland US$220 million, and in UK under his wife's name US$872,000 and US$55,000. We also found in British Virgin Island and Cayman Island," Susno said.

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Summon SBY, why not?

Two political parties, PDI-P and Hanura, proposed the examination of President SBY by the House special committee for Century case. Demokrat, PKS, and PPP said that's not necessary. Why not?

PDI-P politician Gayus Lumbuun said finance minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati confirmed that she informed the president through short message (SMS) on November 21, 2008 about the bailout when SBY was overseas. Late last month, senior politician from National Mandate Party (PAN) Abdillah Toha wrote an open letter to the inquiry committee, asking for the same. "Summoning the president is allowed under the law. The purpose would be to corroborate what his subordinates have told the committee or to reply questions his staffs were unable to answer," Toha wrote.

Toha said if the president knew about the bailout, the inquiry need to get the president's answer about when he gained the knowledge, and what steps he took to ensure the bailout's safety.

Sri Mulyani told legislators earlier that President SBY didn't involved in the bailout decision, but he was reported about the decision. She admitted of several consultations with the President about the bailout. "As far as I remember, the president only asked me to take necessary measures according to existing laws," Sri Mulyani said.

PDI-P politicians argued participation of Marsilam Simanjuntak, former head of President's delivery unit UKP3R, in various meetings for Century bailout, is an indication that the president was actively involved in the decision making.

Raden Pardede, secretary Financial Sector Stability Committee (KSSK) initially said that Marsilam attended the meetings upon the president's requests. But yesterday Raden insisted Marsilam attended in his capacity as one of the sources asked by KSSK for opinions and views on the bailout. Sri Mulyani also said so. Marsilam meanwhile said he attended the meetings because KSSK asked the president to allow me working with KSSK. "That's it," Marsilam said.

Well, it is important to know the president's own view on the process to the bailout, or whether there were communications between him (overseas) and the acting president Jusuf Kalla (at home, VP) during the so-called "critical moments".

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Sherlock Holmes on Robert Tantular

Robert Tantular, former controlling owner of Bank Century, was grilled by the inquiry team established to investigate the scandal with hundreds of questions. Some of them are of the "Sherlock Holmes" quality. But others were simply unrelated to the team's effort to uncover the so-called "conspiracy" in the bailout of Bank Century.

Among the most interesting topic was about dividing Boedi Sampoerna's US$78 million deposit into 249 negotiable certificate of deposits (NCD) worth Rp2 billion each, registered under the names of Bank Century staffs. With this method, Boedi could recover his funds even though the bank would be closed down. Under the deposit insurance scheme, only accounts with Rp2 billion or less are protected.

Sherlock Holmes (SH) asked: Whose idea was that?

Robert Tantular (RT) answered: I met Boedi Sampoerna in Surabaya with Rudi Soraya. It was Rudi Soraya's idea to split the funds into Rp2 billion NCD.

SH: Who is Rudy Soraya?

RT: He is Sampoerna's staff. (Rudy Soraya is listed as independent commissioner of PT Intiland, a property company controlled by Gondokusumo family).

SH: Why someone proposed that?

RT: Because I informed Boedi Sampoerna that Century might be closed down.

SH: What you did then?

RT: Well, I can't reject, because he is a major depositor. We could only help them getting the identity of people to be "used" for the NCDs. So, most of the names for the NCDs are staffs of Boedi Sampoerna in Bali and Surabaya.

SH: Was there a plan from Boedi Sampoerna to withdraw his funds?

RT: In July 2008, Boedi Sampoerna expressed his intention to withdraw Rp1 trillion, because he needed money to finance his tobacco business. But in July 2008, we had liquidity problem already. Still, we disbursed his funds in monthly installments, Rp100 billion, Rp50 billion, etc. But in November 2008, we surrendered. We had no more money to pay him. I once offered Boedi to become shareholder in Century, but he rejected.

SH: So, other than splitting Sampoerna's deposit, you took away US$18 million from his account?

RT: I did that upon Sampoerna's approval. Besides it's a loan between me and Sampoerna. I promised to repay. So I don't understand why Mutiara (the new name of Century) has to pay Sampoerna US$18 million. It's my liabilities to Sampoerna.

SH: Do you have the loan agreement with Sampoerna?

RT: I had submitted the agreement to Sampoerna's office. But he never returned the signed agreement to me.

SH: Why would you assume Boedi Sampoerna approves the loan?

RT: Well, I once got Rp200 billion loan from Sampoerna with personal guarantee and some stocks as collateral. I repaid the facility.

SH: I heard that you meet with executives of some state-owned companies to put their funds in Century, accompanied by "influential people", powerful people or those from the military?

RT: I never did that.

"Sherlock Holmes" then decided to examine the board of directors of some state-owned companies to clarify the issue. Well, Sherhlock should reexamine Robert on the following questions:

1) What was Boedi Sampoerna's reaction when you tell him about the possibility of Century's closure? You said that he was so mad when learning the "liquidity" crisis at Century. What he said?

2) Did you ask his "help" to "talk" to Bank Indonesia or finance ministry or LPS?

3) Did he offered a help to make sure the bank won't be closed down?

Sherlock Holmes plans to examine the following persons:

1) Boedi Sampoerna

2) Rudy Soraya

3) Directors of state-owned enterprises which deposited substantial amount of money in Century.

4) People allegedly "used" by Robert as "brokers", including those close to the "inner circle".

5) Boedi Sampoerna's lawyer, adviser, consultant etc.

This article is taken from Yosefardi.com.

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When Susno barks

As if controversies were not enough, Susno Duadji, former head of criminal investigation unit at National Police, threatens his colleagues. "If all these facilities withdrawn, I would be mad," Susno said. National Police HQ has reportedly pulled all the facilities provided to Susno, including drivers and guards, after he testified in the court proceeding on former KPK chairman Antasari Azhar yesterday.

Susno doesn't believe the decision (to pull back the facilities) was made by Police Chief Bambang Hendarso Danuri. "The National Police Chief is a reformist. But, if this is his order, I would be very upset," Susno said.

Susno rebuffed the statement from National police spokesperson yesterday that he had violated the police ethics and codes of conduct. "Which code of conducts? I know exactly the code. I want the one who alleged me of violating ethics shall be punished because of that," Susno said.

Susno said he already informed Police Chief to testify through his secretary. "I keep the evidence," he said.

Susno was at the heart of the conflict between Police and Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) which created a political turmoil for President SBY. Susno is famous for his controversial analogy of Gecko vs Crocodile regarding the battle between KPK (gecko) and police (crocodile).

Susno's name was also mentioned in the Century-related investigation, especially allegations that he asks for "fee" in helping Boedi Sampoerna recover US$18 million funds.

Susno is a former deputy chairman of anti-money laundering agency (PPATK). Some believe he is in possession of "strategic data" about dubious accounts of police generals, including his former bosses.

So, why Susno barks and fights?

"I'm so sad, as if me and my family are suspects," Susno told Detik.com. He pointed to the "visit" of Police' special force (Densus 88) to his residence. Densus 88 is an anti-terror force. "As if I'm a terrorist," Susno complained. He feels things turned sour since he was replaced as the detective chief.

He admitted he went to Police Chief's residence. He was emotional that time. "That's true. I was mad because my dismissal was announced by police spokesperson," he argued. But he denied reports that he attacked the police chief's guard when he was forbidden to meet his boss. What's next?

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Siti Fadjrijah yet to recover

Siti Ch Fajdrijah, deputy governor of Bank Indonesia and one of key figures behind the bailout of Bank Century, has yet to recover from a stroke hit her since March 2009. Doctors at Cipto Mangunkusumo hospital do not allow her to back to work, Kompas.com reported.

Two other deputies, Budi Rochadi and Ardhayadi, take over Siti's duties at Bank Indonesia since April 2009. "She is not allowed to work hard, but she is still the deputy governor," Kompas quoted Ardhayadi on Wednesday. 

Siti's portfolio is banking supervision. She played crucial role in various meetings organized by Financial Sector Stability Committee (KSSK) chaired by finance minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati, especially in providing data and informations related to Century. Sri Mulyani once admitted poor quality of data provided by Bank Indonesia for the decision making.

Habil Marati, legislator from PPP, once said Siti recommended the liquidation of Century, but others rejected and decided to bailout the bank instead. Siti was elected deputy governor in May 2005. Born in Temanggung, Central Java, in September 2, 1951, Siti graduated from Gadjah Mada University (Yogyakarta) and PhD from University of Indonesia. She started her career in Bank Indonesia as staff at Bank Supervision in 1979. 

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The First Lady & 2014

The 2014 presidential election is still four years away. But senior high students visiting the State Palace yesterday have raised a tough question to the First Lady Ani Yudhoyono about the possibility of becoming president. First Lady downplayed the possibility saying "Never think of replacing Pak SBY someday. I'm not Hillary Clinton."

Well, some people in SBY's Demokrat Party, including party secretary general Amir Syamsuddin, love the idea to promote the First Lady to become the new chairperson of Demokrat Party, replacing his brother in law Hadi Utomo.

The First Lady, according to Amir, has lots of ideas to lead and develop the party. Ani's younger brother Hartanto Edhie Wibowo is the head of state-owned enterprises affairs at Demokrat Party, while his youngest son Baskoro Edhie Wibowo is also executive at the party and a legislator (member of House Commission I, in charge of international affairs and ICT).

The First Lady's name is mentioned in George J. Aditjondro's controversial book: Membongkar Gurita Cikeas; Di Balik Skandal Century, when he discussed about various foundations. One of foundations linked to the First Lady is Yayasan Mutumanikam, where, according to the book, the convicted businesswoman Artalyta Suryani was a treasurer. Artalyta is known by public as "middle-person" for businessman Sjamsul Nursalim.

The First Lady's sister, who is married to Gatot Suwondo (CEO of Bank BNI), is also mentioned in George's book for her role at Jurnal Nasional newspaper. George said that the family of Boedi Sampoerna, through Soenaryo, has "injected" Rp150 billion into Jurnal Nasional.

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Membongkar Gurita Cikeas & Conflict of Interests

Challenged to prove his theory of money flow from state-owned news agency Antara to President SBY's Bravo Media Center, one of key organizations within SBY-Boediono campaign team, George J. Aditjondro, the writer of controversial book Membongkar Gurita Cikeas: Di Balik Skandal Bank Century, said "I got information from internal source." He raised the issue of conflict of interest and violation of election law.

George said the fact is that one of Antara News Agency's executives was also a member of Demokrat Party's success team. He is Rully C. Iswahyudi, deputy director for commercial and IT at Antara. "Even if my allegation will later on proven to be false, it is a violation of law to have the Antara executive in the success team," George argued.

Antara CEO, Akhmad Mukhlis Yusuf, previously asked George to drop the allegation about money flow from Antara's public service obligation (PSO) pool of fund to Bravo Media Center.

Public have raised concern about conflict of interests in the participation of some commissioners of state-owned enterprises in the campaign teams of SBY-Boediono and Kalla-Wiranto. Some decided to resign from SOEs, like in the case of Raden Pardede, but others stay because they claimed they're not part of the formal structure of the success team.

George also raised the conflict of interests issue in his TV debate with Suratto Siswodihardjo last night. Suratto complained about the inclusion of Puri Cikeas Foundation as part of the George's term of Cikeas Octopus. "While I built this foundation with my own money, and that it grows from our businesses. What's wrong with that," Suratto argued.

But George challenged Suratto with the following question, "when will you talk about the chairman of Puri Cikeas foundation and as a chairman of Pro-SBY Movement?"

Suratto, according to our database, is also listed as commissioner of state-owned airport management company PT Angkasa Pura II. Suratto is SBY's neighbor in Puri Cikeas, now an upper class residential area, reportedly purchased at "cheap price" from local farmers.

Puri Cikeas is a heavyweight foundation where CEO of two major banks (BRI and Bukopin) are key officers. State-owned bank BRI and Bukopin both donated to the foundation. The foundation had meetings on government-sponsored programs like biofuel, etc.

Amien Rais, former People's Consultative Assembly speaker, said the main weakness in George's book is secondary source he used, and then added with his own research. But Amien believes in the accuracy of the secondary data.

Interestingly, DPR's Special Committee to investigate Century bailout plans to summon some people mentioned by George in the book. While George didn't make a connection between Century bailout and efforts to recover Boedi Sampoerna's over US$200 million funds in Century, the book contained information about Sampoerna's over Rp150 billion "capital injection" into Jurnal Nasional, a newspaper affiliated with Demokrat Party and SBY. 

About the conflict of interest, we managed to develop a list of cabinet members and commissioners in state-owned enterprises that openly play politics but no punishment weighed upon them. Why the country doesn't want to change? Why the current administration repeats the behavior of previous administrations when it comes to abuse of power and State assets?

Some love the phrase...laws established only to be violated. That seems perfectly correct when you see the list. You can expand the list with hundreds of other names in somewhat similar positions. Not to mention tens of the so-called economists and political observers hired as commissioners in the state-owned companies and government offices. 

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Clean Golkar Caucus? BIG JOKE!

A group of Golkar politicians established what they called "Clean Golkar Caucus" to unseat party chairman Aburizal Bakrie. While they might pointed to the US$220 million tax manipulation allegedly committed by Bakrie-related companies as the rationale for replacing Aburizal, the caucus' name is a problem. "Clean Golkar politicians? What a big joke," a friend commented.

Zaenal Bintang, founding member of the caucus, said Aburizal shall resign temporarily. "He shall resign," Zaenal told the press in the residence of former coordinating minister for the economy Rizal Ramli.

So, who is the "clean" guy to replace Aburizal? Zaenal promoted Agung Laksono (currently the coordinating minister for people's welfare, replacing Aburizal). Agung is also deputy chairman of Golkar Party. Is he clean?

Well, that's not important for them. But they could ride on the recent political dynamics where Golkar, a member of the ruling coalition, is in the frontline on ongoing investigation on Century bailout. 

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Sampoerna, SBY-Demokrat, & Century bailout

George Aditjondro wrote in the controversial book: Membongkar Gurita Cikeas, Di balik Skandal Bank Century about the connection of Sampoerna Group/Family with SBY-Demokrat through Jurnal Nasional newspaper. Boedi Sampoerna, according to Supreme Audit Agency (BPK), had over US$200 million deposit in Century, which would gone, if government closed down the troubled Bank Century.

I just remember when our fellow journalists discussed about who's behind Jurnal Nasional newspaper when it first hit newsstands few years ago (2006 to be exact). Journalists in town mainly mentioned Sampoerna. Which Sampoerna or who in the Sampoerna family involved in Jurnal Nasional (JURNAS), nobody knows except people within the company. George wrote that it's Soenaryo Sampoerna (not Putera, nor Boedi) who invested in the newspaper (PT Media Nusa Perdana). Soenaryo's name is mentioned in various reports about PT Esa Kertas, who is in legal dispute with Bank Danamon. Our source said Soenaryo, known as Kian Soen, is the son of Boedi.

In the first two years of JURNAS, according to George, Sampoerna installed two representatives: Ting Anantan Setiawan and Rainerius Taufik. Ting's role has reportedly been replaced by First Lady Ani Yudhoyono's younger sister, who is also the wife of Gatot Suwondo (BNI CEO). 

Nobody knows how much money Sampoerna already invested in JURNAS. George only pointed to print cost of the paper since 2006 has reached Rp90 billion. If that's true, JURNAS might have spent over Rp300 billion, because according to our experience in the media business, printing cost might be around 30% of total cost.

Still, nobody knows who gave what and how much for the operation of this newspaper. What's the connection between Sampoerna investment in JURNAS and Century bailout? George, in a talk-show with TVOne, said he made no connection between those two. Let people to draw conclusion? Well, what an unpleasant New Year gift for SBY and Demokrat Party. 

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Membongkar Gurita Cikeas triggers controversy

For those regularly monitoring Indonesian politics at play, George Aditjondro's book, Membongkar Gurita Cikeas (literally means: Uncover Cikeas Octopus), is a compilation of scattered reports about various foundations closely linked to Cikeas (President SBY, The First Lady, and the broader inner circle (including Demokrat Party). What makes it special is actually the inner circle's strong reaction to the book, most likely because of the connection to ongoing investigation on Century scandal.

George opened the book with the popular transcript of a wiretapped conversation between Anggodo Widjojo and Ong Yuliana where Yuliana claimed SBY's support for Ritonga (former deputy attorney general) on a plot (i.e. criminalization of KPK leaders).

George discussed about Sampoerna Group's "assistance" to Jurnal Nasional, a newspaper closely affiliated to Demokrat Party and SBY; utilization of public service obligation (PSO) funds for Bravo Media Center, one of campaign arms of SBY-Boediono; SBY-affiliated foundations (Puri Cikeas, SBY Nurussalam, Kesetiakawanan & Kepedulian, etc); First Lady-related foundations (Batik Foundation, Sulam Foundation, etc); Business connection of Cikeas Family, etc.

Yosefardi.com published various articles in the period of 2007-2008 about these issues under the following titles: Puri Cikeas Foundation, SBY's dzikir foundation, cabinet ministers wives' club, Tempo Scan Group & SBY, Tjokrosaputro & The First Family, Mr President & The Joker, etc.

The book has disappeared from bookstores. TBG reportedly withdrew the book. But Naluri Imayanti, duty manager of Gramedia Matraman (Jakarta) outlet, denied the withdrawal. "That's not true. The book has yet to entered the bookstore," Naluri said.

The publisher printed 4,000 copies for US$4/copy. Bookstores withdrawn the book, reportedly due to "pressures", just when the inner circle of the ruling elite seriously discussing the book. The President's spokesperson has expressed SBY's "concern" about the book's content. Demokrat Party executives mainly call the book a "defamation" and as a result, the writer shall be brought to justice (legal process).

House Speaker Marzuki Ali (from Demokrat) said the book is full of baseless allegations and defamations toward SBY.

Denial also came from Antara News Agency, which according to George, channeled public service obligation funds to Bravo Media Center (member of SBY-Boediono campaign team). Suratto Siswodihardjo, chairman of Puri Cikeas Foundation, asked George to drop the conclusion that the foundation he established is part of the Cikeas Octopus. "I simply can't accept that conclusion," Suratto, known as a friend of SBY and chairman of Pro SBY Movement/commissioner of state-owned company PT Angkasa Pura II said in a dialogue at TVOne. But George rejected straightforwardly. "I will not drop that," George said in the dialogue.

All of these would only popularize the book. What a "blessing in disguise" for the publisher. Members of the DPR's inquiry team on Century have reportedly ordered the book directly to the publisher in Yogyakarta (Galang Press). Some universities have also ordered substantial copies.

While SBY's supporters see SBY as a regular victim of defamation, others expressed their concern about the return of authoritarianism if the book is banned from distribution. Interestingly, Amir Syamsuddin, secretary general of Demokrat Party, who is also a lawyer, said the book shall not be withdrawn from distribution. "The book is rubbish, no relation between its title and the content," Amir commented.

President's spokesperson Julian Aldrin Pasha dismissed speculations that government has banned the distribution of the controversial book.

For your own research, checkout the following websites:

(1) Puri Cikeas Foundation

(2) Kesetiakawanan and Kepedulian Foundation

(3) Yayasan Majelis Dzikir SBY Nurussalam. Or this article.

(4) Yayasan Batik Nusantara

You may read others, for reference: 

(1) Indonesia Tersenyum

(2) Indonesia Pintar

   

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