An escalation of violence

An escalation of violence

Whether we are aware of it or not, we have now entered a
disturbing stage (in our reform drive). We entered a stage of
self-destruction the moment we elevated the students to heroes of
change and renewal. We entered this stage of self-destruction the
moment we allowed the students and the Armed Forces (ABRI) to
engage in a match of strength on the streets in the name of one
word: reform.

Events in Medan show how student actions, when staged on the
streets and outside the campuses, are always fatal. Students who
cry for change and enlightenment on the streets are destroying
themselves. In such a situation, those students could kill their
own brothers or kin. In such a situation, the masses will devour
one another.

Therefore, before it is too late, it is best to assign all the
ardor and impatience for reform to that institution called the
House of Representatives. If things don't satisfy the students,
they can demonstrate there. The House of Representatives should
be made to answer their demands because, after all, it is the
House which is the most responsible for this aggravating state of
disorder. This institution can no longer hide behind assorted
arguments, such as pressure from the executive branch of
government. It must not be allowed to castrate and shackle
itself.

If the crisis of confidence is to be overcome, the House of
Representatives must be made the hero (of the present reform
movement). By elevating the students to heroes we will -- indeed,
we already have begun to -- reap disaster. We are sacrificing the
buds of our nation before they have had a chance to bloom.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta