People have to know that physically Suharto might look healthy, but mentally that is not the case

Denny Kalimang, lawyer for Suharto

Suharto, who ruled Indonesia for 32 years until 1998, stood trial two years ago on charges that he stole more than $550m when in office.

However the trial was halted after Suharto's lawyers argued he was mentally unfit to testify after suffering a stroke.

The new medical checks were ordered by the attorney general after 81-year-old Suharto was reported to be in apparent good health at a recent family wedding.

Investigation

Twelve government doctors, and about 15 of Suharto's own doctors, spent about three hours at the Suharto family home on Tuesday, accompanied by state prosecutors.

Afterwards, doctors from the state-run Cipto Mangkusumo said they would have to run more tests before making a final diagnosis.

It is the latest of repeated attempts by the prosecution to reopen the case.

As many as 27 doctors are examining Suharto

But one of Suharto's lawyers, Denny Kalimang, denied that the reports of his client chatting animatedly at his granddaughter's wedding were significant.

"People have to know that physically Suharto might look healthy, but mentally that is not the case. He cannot have a normal conversation like healthy people.

"If people ask whether he can attend a trial, physically yes. But mentally he won't be able to testify because he cannot put his thoughts into words properly."

Since Suharto resigned he has been admitted to hospital for medical treatment on several occasions, including for the stroke, intestinal trouble and pneumonia.

He has also been fitted with a pacemaker after collapsing at home last June with low blood pressure and an irregular heartbeat.