Aceh victory hallow<\/p>\n
It would perhaps be wise to consider that loyalty only becomes
\nmeaningful when it is given voluntarily, and this would be when
\nan individual feels the need and desire to support something that
\nis worthy of his following. To feel proud of one's nation depends
\nheavily on what the government does for the welfare of its
\npeople, and of its track record of achievements to enhance the
\nstanding of the nation in the eyes of the international
\ncommunity. Government is therefore responsible for any hostile
\nreactions of its people if it fails to provide such a service to
\nthe nation. This is called accountability.<\/p>\n
One could argue that Aceh, in some ways, is similar to Iraq,
\nas both regions in the eyes of many are being taken over by an
\noutside force. True, one is a foreigner and one is a state, but
\nfor those that simply see it as an invasion, the sense of
\nrepulsion is exactly the same.<\/p>\n
If during such a conflict, the military were seen to round up
\ncivilians and get them to swear allegiance to the state, then
\nthis would surely indicate a loyalty under pressure, and if that
\nwere the case, it would be meaningless and hollow.<\/p>\n
There is a clear danger of another hollow victory in Aceh, if
\nthe people finally submit to another military force that demands
\nloyalty to the state through fear and reprisals. For this is a
\nwar that cannot be won until people have the courage and wisdom
\nto face up to the root causes of the conflict, and when Megawati
\nremembers her election campaign words of not a drop of Acehnese
\nblood will touch the ground should I become the president of
\nIndonesia.<\/p>\n
This war should cease, as without doubt the Acehnese people
\nare true Indonesians, and their history clearly bears witness to
\nthat. Furthermore, if the government wants loyalty from the
\npeople, then it must endeavor to earn the respect of the nation.
\nAcceptance of both these things would be a good starting point
\nfor those that truly want to unite Indonesia under one voice,
\none flag, and in a way that is seen to be freely given.<\/p>\n
DAVID WALLIS
\nRedditch, England<\/p>",
"url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/aceh-victory-hallow-1447893297",
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