'Activists must not strive for status'

'Activists must not strive for status'

JAKARTA (JP): Vice President Try Sutrisno cautioned yesterday activists that their mission is to further their groups' causes, not to strive for position or status.

"This is no longer the era whereby membership in an organization is considered a way of achieving position, status or even certain privileges," Try said while opening the congress of an organization affiliated with the ruling political group Golkar on Saturday.

The Upholders of People's Mandate's congress continues today in the North Sulawesi city of Manado. The group is one of the smaller mass organizations and has supplied some of Golkar's civilian leaders.

Besides electing a new executive board and outlining a five- year working program, the congress will also discuss preparations for the 1997 general election.

Golkar chairman Harmoko is one of several officials who will address the congress which will end on Thursday.

A mass organization or a social institution should be seen as a vehicle for one's fight and dedication, a vehicle to help the people independently and confidently raise their standard of living and prosperity, Try said in his speech.

He said people see mass organizations and other similar social institutions as places for them to channel their political aspirations and struggle to achieve their goals.

"They want to see real work, something that affects their lives. They no longer accept empty promises," he said.

He urged mass organizations to join in the current government drive to strengthen national discipline in all aspects of life, including the organizations' activities. (emb)