He is a fighter leader who has no sense of fear."
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - A noted Indonesian national figure, Syafii Maarif, has expressed disappointment over political parties stance on "mystery funds" issue affecting Jakarta governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok).

"It is very disappointing that political parties have been weak to make them become the source of all the problems. Leaders of PDIP, PKS, Gerindra, PPP, Hanura, Demokrat, Golkar and PKB have all been inconsistent," he said here on Sunday.

The former general chairman of the Islamic organization Muhammadiyah, said all of the politicians rejected the funds found in the Jakarta 2015 draft budget but they would not withdraw from supporting the right to investigate launched by Jakarta legislative assembly members aimed at Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama who rejected the inclusion of the funds in the budget.

Syafii praised the governors adamant to fight for the use of the draft 2015 e-budget, saying that his stance has drawn a lot of sympathy and support from various quarters especially anti-corruption activists and figures.

He said Ahok, as the governor is also called, has indeed shown his courage when it comes to protecting the peoples money and readiness to sacrifice himself in the fight despite being mobbed by party members in the legislative assembly.

"I have been following his activities so far although I have not known him personally. He is a fighter leader who has no sense of fear," he said.

Syafii, who was named by President Joko Widodo to lead the Independent Team he set up to help him find solution of the conflict between Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the police, said he supported Ahok in dealing with the mystery funds issue.

"I think he has been adamant in dealing with the issue because it is a principle thing that has so far been almost untouchable and also when it comes to eradicating corruption and conspiracy in budget affairs. This problem has existed long in this republic," he said.

(Reported by Anom Prihantoro/Uu.H-YH/B003)

Editor: Priyambodo RH
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