Right to vote<\/p>\n
From Koran Tempo<\/p>\n
The issue of whether military and police personnel have the
\nright to vote during the elections should be tackled wisely. The
\nmilitary and the police themselves are still seeking the best way
\nto act as defenders of the nation according to the People's
\nConsultative Assembly Decree No. VII\/MPR\/2000.<\/p>\n
In addition, we have to be aware that our nation is in a
\ntransition toward a more democratic and modern Indonesia.
\nDemocracy is no respecter of persons, be they young, old, rich or
\npoor, elite groups or otherwise. Therefore we should not draw a
\nline between civilians and non-civilians. To satisfy everyone, we
\nmust draw up fair and clear regulations.<\/p>\n
We should not be concerned if the military and police play a
\nvery strategic role in Indonesia's election or political arena
\nbecause we know that they have only about 500,000 votes
\naltogether. It is irrational to be afraid of this insignificant
\nnumber.<\/p>\n
Military and police personnel as individuals and citizens of
\nIndonesia deserve to be able to exercise their political rights,
\nbut must also abide by clear additional rules in its
\nimplementation : For example, a soldier must not wear his uniform
\nduring an election and must mix with civilians, as an indication
\nthat they are not in favor of a certain political party.<\/p>\n
Institutionally, all military and police personnel must be
\nneutral in their attitude toward all political powers in the
\ncountry. To make the voting purely an individual right, their
\nleaders must never use the line of command to influence their
\nsubordinates. Retired soldiers are civilians who have the right
\nto vote and to be elected and the same obligations as other
\ncivilians.<\/p>\n
We know that no police nor military personnel will sit as
\nmembers of the House in 2004, therefore they deserve to get their
\nright to vote back. Let's all be fair!<\/p>\n
KAHARJO<\/p>\n
Jakarta<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/right-to-vote-1447899208", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }