ABRI's trust in Soeharto part of a 'strategic plan'

JAKARTA (JP): The Armed Forces (ABRI) reaffirmed yesterday its commitment to renominating President Soeharto even if there was a change in its leadership.

ABRI spokesman Brig. Gen. A. Wahab Mokodongan said the Armed Forces choice of Soeharto was part of its "strategic plan" to help restore the ailing Indonesian economy.

"I can tell you that ABRI will not reverse its support for President Soeharto's renomination even when the incumbent Armed Forces chief is replaced," he told The Jakarta Post.

Wahab made the remarks in response to rumors that incumbent ABRI Chief Gen. Feisal Tanjung would be replaced soon. The spokesman declined to comment on the speculation.

"Even if we have to have three successive ABRI chiefs ahead of the general session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) next month, which will elect the new president, we will not change our choice," he said.

Wahab said any changes or adjustments to the plan would only cause the Armed Forces headquarters difficulties in the future. He did not elaborate.

He also dismissed speculation that he was among the ABRI leaders likely to be replaced.

The 1,000-strong MPR will convene next month to elect a president and vice president and endorse the 1998/2003 State Policy Guidelines.

Constitutionally, the five factions in the MPR, including the 113-member Armed Forces faction, should announce their presidential and vice presidential candidates in the general assembly, scheduled for March 1 to March 11.

"The Armed Forces headquarters will formally announce its presidential and vice presidential candidates at the end of this month," Wahab said.

He said ABRI's decision to renominate Soeharto was made in the belief that Soeharto would be able to overcome the current economic crisis while the military was also aware of demands for political reform.

"Political reform is needed to accelerate development to improve prosperity... yet we believe restoring the country's battered economy is more crucial now and should have top priority.

"And ABRI still trusts President Soeharto to lead the country."

He said he doubted critics who said the economy would improve if Soeharto was replaced.

Wahab added the Armed Forces had discussed names for the vice presidency but would support anyone that the president elect picked.

"We will support Amien Rais if pak Harto eventually chooses him for the post," he said.

He was referring to the outspoken Yogyakarta-based Moslem leader, who is also chairman of the 28-million strong Muhammadiyah Moslem organization.

Wahab denied reports that ABRI had publicly announced its vice presidential candidates.

"We've never said that our candidates for the vice presidency were incumbent Try Sutrisno or Army Chief of Staff Gen. Wiranto."

"One thing for sure is that our candidate will represent the majority of people's aspirations," he added. (imn)