Suharto ruled Indonesia when I visited it in 1986 and 1993. Unfortunately, many of the fascinating countries that I've visited in Asia have or had oppressive governments.


Suharto in critical condition
Last Updated Mon, 15 May 2006 18:26:01 EDT
CBC News

Former Indonesian dictator Suharto reportedly remains in a critical condition and is in danger of a stroke due to complications from his heart medication.

INDEPTH: Indonesia

The head of his medical team, Dr. Marjo Subandiono, says the medicine taken by Suharto improves blood circulation but it has also caused bleeding in his kidney. He says that although conscious, Suharto remains in critical condition.

Suharto, 84, underwent a stomach operation to relieve pressure from gas and fluid on Thursday following an earlier operation last Sunday for intestinal problems.

The former president has been hospitalized several times in the past for the same condition, as well as for stroke and heart problems. Suharto ruled Indonesia for more than three decades, stepping down amid mounting unrest in 1998.

Indonesia's attorney general announced on Friday that a corruption case against Suharto, who is accused of embezzling billions of dollars of state assets during his 32-year rule, had been dropped due to his deteriorating health.

Australian Broadcasting Corporation