Aceh, nothing but a hollow victory

Aceh, nothing but a hollow victory

It would perhaps be wise to consider that loyalty only becomes
meaningful when it is given voluntarily, and this would be when
an individual feels the need and desire to support something that
is worthy of his following. To feel proud of one's nation depends
heavily on what the government does for the welfare of its
people, and of its track record of achievements to enhance the
standing of the nation in the eyes of the international
community. Government is therefore responsible for any hostile
reactions of its people if it fails to provide such a service to
the nation. This is called accountability.

One could argue that Aceh, in some ways, is similar to Iraq,
as both regions in the eyes of many are being taken over by an
outside force. True, one is a foreigner and one is a state, but
for those that simply see it as an invasion, the sense of
repulsion is exactly the same.

If during such a conflict, the military were seen to round up
civilians and get them to swear allegiance to the state, then
this would surely indicate a loyalty under pressure, and if that
were the case, it would be meaningless and hollow.

There is a clear danger of another hollow victory in Aceh, if
the people finally submit to another military force that demands
loyalty to the state through fear and reprisals. For this is a
war that cannot be won until people have the courage and wisdom
to face up to the root causes of the conflict, and when Megawati
remembers her election campaign words of not a drop of Acehnese
blood will touch the ground should I become the president of
Indonesia.

This war should cease, as without doubt the Acehnese people
are true Indonesians, and their history clearly bears witness to
that. Furthermore, if the government wants loyalty from the
people, then it must endeavor to earn the respect of the nation.
Acceptance of both these things would be a good starting point
for those that truly want to unite Indonesia under one voice,
one flag, and in a way that is seen to be freely given.

DAVID WALLIS
Redditch, England