An act of terror

The perpetrators of Tuesday's bomb attack on the Philippine ambassador's residence have shown a certain finesse in the timing of their act and target of their attack. However, whoever they are and whatever their motive, any acts of terror must be condemned. Terror is a cowardly act perpetrated by cold-blooded people.

From the timing and the location of the bombing, a conclusion can be drawn that the attack was part of a political agenda. Among the victims were people who knew nothing about politics and had no interest in politics. The biggest victim, however, is this nation. The blast has helped validate Indonesia's current reputation as a wild and barbaric country.

As we convey our condolences to the families of the victims and condemn the perpetrators of the attack, we remind the government of President Abdurrahman Wahid of its duty to maintain security and order. The continuing acts of terror and the fact that perpetrators of such acts have never been caught have eroded the credibility of the government, and especially that of the security apparatus.

It would, therefore, be appropriate for the upcoming Annual Session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) to evaluate the performance of the 10-month-old administration of Abdurrahman Wahid.

-- Republika, Jakarta