Juwono`s statement on `middlemen` in arms procurement must be followed up

"Don`t allow the matter to become a topic of confusing speculations. I think it is a serious issue because a defense minister does not say things without good reason," Fatwa said at the legislative building here.

The MPR deputy chief opined that Defense Minister Juwono Sudarsono had personal integrity and would thus not make unaccountable statements.

"Do not let Juwono`s statement go unnoticed. BK DPR should pro-actively follow it up," Fatwa said.

He said that to follow it up, the BK DPR should invite the defense minister to explain in detail his allegation about legislators acting as middlemen in the purchase of arms and equipment for the National Defense Forces (TNI).

"The defense minister certainly means what he says, and therefore we hope the House speaker will respond to it seriously and not just ignore it," Fatwa noted.