Forestry Minister Refutes BIN Chief`s Accusation

"The task of a minister is to assist the president in running the government. I think all ministers must support what the president had decided," the forestry minister said here on Saturday.

He was responding to a statement made by State Intelligence Agency (BIN) Head Syamsir Siregar on Thursday that there was a minister who came from a political party which masterminded the students` rallies.

Ka`ban said that the president`s decision to raise fuel oil prices was based on a mature consideration at cabinet ministers` meetings.

He said however that he did not feel offended by the BIN head`s remarks labeling the minister as `sontoloyo` (stupid).

Ka`ban who is also chairman of the Crescent Star Party (PBB), said the Siregar`s statement was not addressed to him because so far he had been consistent with his attitude in supporting all decisions made by the president.

Sjamsir Siregar said on Thursday that there was a minister who had criticized the government`s decision last month to raise fuel oil prices.

"I regret ...