The government is reportedly considering an official campaign to "rehabilitate" the name of the ailing Suharto, who was ousted from power in 1998 after a brutal 32-year rule.

Recuperating from colon surgery and stricken by a series of strokes, Suharto's deteriorating health was cited by prosecutors as the reason for dropping charges that he embezzled a staggering $600 million from the country's coffers before being forced out of office by nationwide riots and student protests.

Critics allege Suharto, 84, is feigning illness and should be brought to trial or tried in absentia.

The Japan Times Weekly: May 20, 2006
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