Suharto Suffers Multiple Organ Failure

Former Indonesian dictator takes critical turn for the worse
By Jane Yager,  Newser Staff
Posted Jan 12, 2008 11:53 AM CST
Suharto Suffers Multiple Organ Failure
Protesters who claim that they are victims of human rights abuses during former President Suharto's regime hold posters during a demonstration at Pertamina Hospital where the former dictator is being treated in Jakarta, Indonesia, Friday, Jan. 11, 2008. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana)   (Associated Press)

Longtime Indonesian dictator Suharto's health worsened yesterday as he suffered multiple organ failure. Suharto's condition improved slightly as workers rushed to prepare for what they believed to be his imminent funeral, AFP  reports. Suharto, 86, was forced from power a decade ago after ruling Indonesia with an iron fist for three decades.

Suharto arrived in the hospital January 4 with heart, kidney, and lung problems that fluctuated until his condition dramatically worsened yesterday evening. Suharto, who has lived reclusively in Jakarta since his overthrow, faces lingering graft charges; many Indonesians view him as corrupt but feel that "actually Suharto's era was better." (More Suharto stories.)

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