Jakarta – The Prosperous Justice Party claims massive corruption charges laid against controversial party lawmaker Muhammad Misbakhun were fabricated.

Lutfi Hasan Ishaq, chairman of the Islam-based party, also known as the PKS, said since the case began, the "political aroma has been very strong". "The charges on Misbakhun are fabricated," Lutfi said, adding that the party – which campaigned on a anticorruption platform – would assist Misbakhun during the case.

Prosecutors are seeking an eight-year sentence for the legislator for allegedly fraudulently obtaining a $22.5 million loan from the now-defunct Bank Century. Misbakhun, who is alleged to have amassed a large wealth when he worked at the Directorate General of Taxation, was among the more vocal legislators pushing for the House of Representatives to investigate the government bailout of the ailing bank.

Lutfi said the party was obliged to help the party member, "especially as the case is more political than legal."

Prosecutors allege Misbakhun collaborated with Robert Tantular, the now-jailed former co-owner of Century, to fabricate the documents to show that his company, Selalang Prima Internasional, had put up collateral when it had not.

Misbakhun has called the case "a conspiracy by the ruler" of the country in likely reference to President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. The PKS is a member of Yudhoyono's coalition government. (JG, Antara)