JAKARTA -- The youngest son of former Indonesian President Suharto went to trial for murder Wednesday. The case is probably the most important test yet of the credibility of Indonesia's legal system. Hutomo Mandala Putra, better known as Tommy, stands accused of masterminding the murder of a Supreme Court justice. If found guilty the notorious playboy could be sentenced to death.
Few believe he will be.
The trial against Tommy, 40, is expected to last for three or four months. During this time the Indonesians will get what they love most. Extensive media coverage of what is widely seen as a soap opera.