An example of political elite
An example of political elite
From Media Indonesia
What a shame! The fate that awaits us, the little people. Do
you want to know the true status of this country's people at a
time when their future has become increasingly uncertain. In fact
they have allowed themselves to be reduced to tumbal yang agung
(noble victims), in the interests of economic restructuring.
Promises of a peaceful, happy and prosperous life are only
glorious ideals without substance. Moreover, the life and the
lives of the little people have become a valuable commodity in
terms of political support for the nation's elite during the
current reform era.
The awareness of the political elite in respect of the
supremacy of law and the desire to optimize the law as a means to
resolve conflicts and to restore the fundamental rights of the
little people has apparently been reduced, controversially, to a
question of additional bargaining power. Indeed, it is very
difficult to expect a political example from a nation with such a
diversity of ethnic groups, customs, religions, cultures and
languages. All of their fine words are, in truth, utter nonsense.
This particular reality is very clearly reflected in their
intimate and chummy political behavior which becomes dissipated
in opinions that are of little value and of even less use. They
may even prove to be very dangerous and have a disintegrating
impact. If the interaction which is currently developing is
intended to improve education about democracy and to give rise to
democratic maturity, or to improve the social order so as to make
it more equitable, then the question arises as to why the results
which are produced always ignore issues of conscience, etiquette
and ethics and even open up the possibility of new and
potentially difficult to deal with conflicts.
It is an extremely sad reflection on society if the bringing
about of changes in the social, economic and political order and
in the nation's culture is primarily determined and developed by
the exclusive, dialectical ability to act as well as a distrust
in the supremacy of law. How tragic it is!
Therefore we, the poor and oppressed little people, call on
the political elite without exception and regardless of class or
group affiliation, to realize that we are completely nauseated
and thoroughly loathe every one of your self-interested actions
and your pursuing of vested interests. We are no longer content
to be exploited by your self-serving greed. All we need are jobs,
clothes and food as well as guarantees of security, peace and
happiness. Nothing else matters.
YULIAWAN W. SARAGIH
Jakarta