Embattled President B.J. Habibie yesterday begged highly critical lawmakers to forgive his failures before they vote for a new head of state this week.
The 700 members of the People's Consultative Assembly are to decide on Wednesday who will be Indonesia's leader for the next five years.
Standing at an ornate wooden rostrum, Habibie insisted that many of Indonesia's massive problems were the legacy of past dictatorial leaders and not his fault.
Nevertheless, he admitted he had made mistakes in office. Legislators, who earlier had vigorously attacked his record, applauded warmly as his voice quavered.
"In all humility, I implore you to open your hearts and forgive the weaknesses I have shown while trying to carry out my task," he said in the address that was broadcast live on national television.
He said whoever wins Wednesday's ballot must continue to push for democratic reforms. Habibie is one of three candidates for the presidency.
Appointed, not elected, Habibie took over 16 months ago when his authoritarian predecessor and mentor President Suharto was forced to quit after 32 years of iron-fisted rule.
On Thursday, he made a speech that outlined the achievements of his administration and yesterday he replied to widespread criticism of it.
After he spoke yesterday, 500 supporters of his main rival, Megawati Sukarnoputri, demonstrated in downtown Jakarta and demanded that she be made president. Many then attended an outdoor rock `n' roll concert there.
"Megawati for president or revolution!" many shouted.
About 200 police in riot gear stood by but did not intervene.
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