"Based on the meeting`s decision and on the views, deliberation and consensus of all factions in the House, the House`s Commission III (on security affairs) approves Commissioner General Sutarman as the National Police chief of the Republic of Indonesia. We also agree to terminate outgoing National Police Chief General Timur Pradopo`s term of office," Commission III Chairman Pieter C. Zulkifli said.
Pieter explained that Commission III had also conducted a series of fit-and-proper test activities with regard to the sole nomination of Sutarman as the National Police Chief. The commission visited Sutarman`s private residence on Oct. 9 and made a public announcement on the fit-and-proper test through the media, seeking to obtain public input that lends support to or criticism of his nomination.
On Oct. 16, the Commission held a hearing with the Financial Transactions Analysis and Report Center (PPATIK) and the National Police Commission (Kompolnas) to obtain information on Sutarman`s track record in the financial sector.
"We conducted a fit-and-proper test on National Police chief candidate Commissioner General Sutarman on Oct. 17, 2013. Following that, Commission III held a meeting to make a decision on his candidacy," Pieter said.
He noted that the commission had conducted the fit-and-proper test as part of its commitment to assessing the suitability of the nominee for the role of a national police chief, which is the highest strategic position related to the state`s security and law enforcement.
"We are aware that competence and integrity are absolute requirements for a police chief candidate. Based on these considerations, Commission III approves the appointment of Commissioner General Sutarman as the National Police chief," Pieter stated.
He expressed hope that the appointed National Police chief would improve the image and authority of the National Police as a state organ that plays an important role in maintaining the peace, upholding the law, and providing protection and security services to the people.
Following his endorsement by the House, Commissioner General Sutarman will be inaugurated as the National Police chief by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. On the occasion, Pieter also extended the House`s gratitude and appreciation to outgoing Police Chief General Timur Pradopo, who provided professional service in maintaining state security and law and order during his tenure. (*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2013
