Police Chief Explains Budi Waseso's Transfer Of Post To Parliament

Jakarta (Antara Bali) - General Badrodin Haiti spoke to the House of Representatives' Commission-III, Tuesday, about Commissioner General Budi Waseso's transfer from his post as the National Police's Crime Investigation Department chief to the National Narcotics Agency's (BNN's) chief.

"Commissioner General Waseso's transfer from his post to become the BNN head has been done in accordance with the procedure," National Police Chief General Haiti remarked.

Haiti explained that the procedure was in accordance with the Presidential Decree on organizational structure, wherein the appointment and dismissal of two-star senior police officers is done by the police chief after consulting with the president.

Vice President Jusuf Kalla made assurance here on Friday that the replacement of Commissioner General Budi Waseso was not a political move.

"No, it is not political. It is an entirely professional decision," Kalla stated after giving directives at a working meeting of the Ministry of Public Works and Housing.

He remarked that the transfer of posts in the police force and other institutions, including ministries, was a common practice.

He clarified that Waseso's transfer was also not done because his performance was bad.

"Narcotic crime rates are also high. So, it will also be appropriate for him to be stationed there," he pointed out.

Waseso has been reported to replace Commissioner General Anang Iskandar as chief of the BNN, while Iskandar would take over his post.

Haiti has confirmed that the presidential decrees on Commissioner General Iskandar's termination as BNN chief and the appointment of Waseso as the new BNN chief have been issued.

He said Iskandar would retire next year, but it was acceptable as the replacement could be done after five, eight or even 12 months. (WDY)