Fear and loathing from street banners<\/p>\n
From Neraca<\/p>\n
Banners with political messages have been popping up of late
\non main streets, places of worship and at other places.<\/p>\n
They are a stain on the city's scenery and they cause a great
\namount of stress to the beholder. I do not understand the purpose
\nof the war of banners and their messages.<\/p>\n
I remember there was a similar situation shortly before Pak
\nHarto stepped down. The banners said the community should not to
\nvilify Soeharto. Other warned of the return of the communists
\n(PKI).<\/p>\n
Usually the banners are placed by particular organizations,
\nreligious groups or others. Contents of their messages seem to
\nindicate the organizations want to set the record straight on
\naccusations directed at their group. However, the meaning is not
\nalways clear.<\/p>\n
Not surprisingly, the banners stir up a lot of confusion.
\nTheir presence inspires fear, as my colleagues, especially women,
\ncan relate. They are reminded of the mid-May riots whenever they
\nread statements which are provocative or agitative. There is deep
\nconcern that unrest may easily recur.<\/p>\n
The banners seem to have eluded the attention of the
\ngovernment. The local government administration should put in
\norder the placement of political banners.<\/p>\n
HERWANTO WICAKSONO<\/p>\n
Jakarta<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/fear-and-loathing-from-street-banners-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }