Luthfi, Ahmad graft trial begins

JAKARTA. Two suspects in the beef importation scandal, Luthfi Hasan Ishaaq and his aide, Ahmad Fathanah, are undergoing their first trial session at the Jakarta Corruption Court regarding the bribery and money-laundering cases centering on the government’s procurement of imported meat.

“I will speak [to you] after the hearing,” said Luthfi when he arrived at the corruption court on Monday morning.

Luthfi did say, however, that he had recovered from his illness. “I’m fully fit now. I was just examined yesterday,” said the former Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) chairman.

On Thursday, Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) spokesman Johan Budi said Luthfi had been suffering from hemorrhoids.

Speaking separately, Luthfi’s aide, Ahmad Fathanah, said he was ready to face trial. “Alhamdulillah [Thank God], I’m healthy,” he said.

No supporters from the PKS were in the courtroom; only Ahmad’s wife, Sefti Sanustika, was seen attending the trial session.

Luthfi and Ahmad are charged with accepting bribes over beef imports. (ebf/The Jakarta Post)