Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyoo said Monday that former president Soeharto had achievements and mistakes during his 32-year-rule in the world's fourth most populous country comprising various ethnic groups and religions.

President Susilo made the statement in a speech at the funeral of the former strongman.

"We, of course, admit that the late Soeharto had given so much to the nation. But as an ordinary human, leader, the late Soeharto had not been free from mistakes," Susilo said.

"As a big nation, let's express a gratitude and a respect on his services. I ask all the Indonesian people to pray for him," he said.

Susilo said Indonesia had lost one of its best citizens, a true fighter, a true soldier and a respected statesman.

"We have lost one of the best citizens. We conducted this funeral as a respect from the state and the government on the services of Soeharto to the state during his life," said Susilo.

Soeharto, born in June 1921 in Yogyakarta province, died on Sunday in a Jakarta hospital after being treated for 24 days.

He faced numerous allegations including corruption, but in May 2006 prosecutors closed a criminal case against him due to his deteriorating health.

The former president stepped down on May 21, 1998 amid nation-wide protests in the wake of the financial crisis that led to the collapse of the country's economy
 
(Xinhua News Agency January 29, 2008)