Hendropriyono denies involvement in government overthrow plot

Former National Intelligence Agency chief A.M. Hendropriyono denied that he or his close associates were involved in a movement aimed at toppling the legitimate government. In a statement on Friday (19/6) in Jakarta, he called allegations linking him to a wave of violent protests against the government hoaxes and defamation. Hendropriyono said public expression in a democracy must remain within the boundaries of law and the constitution. He also stressed that he has never supported or ordered anyone to carry out unconstitutional actions. According to him, political differences must be channeled through peaceful and civilized means, while family ties cannot be used as evidence of political or ideological links.