Aceh doesn't need local parties

Aceh doesn't need local parties

From Republika

The Aceh problem will soon be peacefully resolved after another round of negotiations between the disputing parties.

However, the demand of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) to set up local political parties after recognizing the unitary state of Indonesia has become a stumbling block.

After the signing of the memorandum of understanding, GAM members will receive amnesty from the president. Their rights, including political rights, will be restored so that they are equal to other Indonesian citizens. Therefore, they will need no local parties. If they receive this extra right, this in effect means the government is recognizing GAM.

The Indonesian government has been yielding so as to prevent a lot more victims from dying in the conflict, striving to settle the fighting in a peaceful and elegant manner.

Nevertheless, GAM should not be allowed too much leeway. If GAM recognizes the unitary state of Indonesia, its obedience to the law and Constitution of Indonesia should be enough.

T. DAUD YUSUF Jakarta