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