Air of pessimism

Air of pessimism

The short and unhappy tenure of Abdurrahman Wahid as president of Indonesia is moving inexorably to an end. Unfortunately, there is at present little reason for optimism that his successor will head a government of much greater effectiveness.

The overwhelming parliamentary vote in favor of formal impeachment hearings sealed Mr. Wahid's fate as the country's chief executive, even though he continues to resist the inevitable. While she remains a bit coy about it all, it seems certain that Vice-President Megawati Sukarnoputri will become president before many months pass.

Unfortunately, not much is known about what policies she would put in place. Famously silent or noncommittal on nearly all things, there is little proof that Ms. Megawati has any clear ideas about governing her troubled and difficult nation. What is known about some of her associates, however, does not foster confidence.

The whole affair is discouraging. The once-popular Mr. Wahid, known affectionately as Gus Dur to his many friends, was hailed less than two years ago as a potential savior of democratic politics. He was revered for his probity and humor, among other things, and brought the nation renewed respect at home and abroad. With Ms. Megawati as Vice-President -- she had won most votes in the elections, though not a majority -- many people felt Jakarta had a team able to provide both stability and direction to a floundering state.

It was not to be. Mr. Wahid's obvious frailty hindered his effectiveness, while Ms. Megawati neither had nor sought a clear governing role. Gus Dur never chose an efficient economic team and his relations with the military were frayed. As separatist, financial and other problems multiplied, he was too often visiting faraway nations of limited relevance to Indonesia.

Eventually, he was also tarnished by financial scandal. All this was too much for most of the public and political elites, and the impeachment process began. Unfortunately, no one can know whether things will change for the better if Ms. Megawati soon assumes the presidency.

-- The South China Morning Post, Hong Kong