``To set the time for the general elections, a special session of the MPR (people's consultative assembly) is needed .. The special session is estimated to be held at the end of 1998 or early in 1999'', Harmoko said.He was speaking after meeting Habibie, his four coordinating ministers and state secretary Akbar Tanjung at Parliament.

Harnmoko did not give a precise date in 1999 but said that a period to ``acquaint the public'' of the MPR decision and prepare for the elections was needed.

``After the MPR has decided on the timing of the special session of the MPR, time would be needed to acquaint the public with the preparations for the general elections, including the participants, the system and the implementation according to the new laws,'' Haroko said.

Meanwhile Moody's investors service, the American credit rating agency, saysIndonesia could be in for greater financial trouble owing to a largely insolvent banking system in which more than three quarters of the credit could soon be ``non-performing.''

``In the short run, social and political unrest continue to cause capital flight and will delay Government effort to deal with the crisis as well as the return of foreign or domestic investment,'' Moody's said.