Mega-'bintang'<\/p>\n
The appearance of Mega-bintang (Mega-star) is a new phenomenon
\nin Indonesia's political history which emerged during the hustle
\nand bustle of the 1997 election campaign. The United Development
\nParty (PPP), which was regarded as a nice and calm party, now
\nappears different. It dashed out like a meteorite which surprised
\nmany people, including high-ranking officials.<\/p>\n
Although the Mega-bintang symbol was instantly banned by the
\ngovernment, it keeps appearing. It has even earned great support.
\nWhen the banners were shelved, the campaigners could still shout
\nloudly. Even when their voices were hushed, they could paint
\npictures on their bodies. If they were to be imprisoned, people's
\ncompassion would double. And if they were clobbered, they would
\nreact.<\/p>\n
And if they were shot, this country would be in a big mess.
\nPeople have even resisted the government's campaign rules, by
\nparading in the streets for example.<\/p>\n
Mega-bintang is not a \"disguised coalition\" between supporters
\nof Megawati Soekarnoputri and the United Development Party, but a
\nspontaneous creation of the Indonesian community which has been
\nsatiated and sickened by the awkwardness and improprieties that
\ntake place. Some people have become victims of authoritarian
\nacts, directly or indirectly. This has resulted from unbecoming
\nactions on the part of bureaucratic elements.<\/p>\n
Mega-bintang involves the masses and is not only limited to
\nthe supporters of PPP and Megawati's Indonesian Democratic Party.
\nIt also involves people who crave justice. Added to this group
\nare those who have been neglected during the 30 years of
\ndevelopment. They are the artists who have no place to express
\ntheir aspirations because of government prohibitions, outspoken
\ncritics who have lost their jobs, sidewalk vendors who have to
\nface \"operation orders\", workers who long for better living
\ncondition, and the unemployed whose fate is uncertain.<\/p>\n
In conclusion, there is no point in banning anything without
\nconsidering the negative impacts. Mega-bintang is like ripples on
\nthe sea, ripples that could become huge waves ready to smash
\nwhatever obstacles get in the way of the journey toward the coast
\nof change. Obviously we do not want any genocide taking place in
\nour country. But the question is: Would Mega-bintang bring about
\nthe desired change? Only heaven knows!<\/p>\n
RADITYO DJADJOERI<\/p>\n
Address known to the editor<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/mega-bintang-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }