An irrational act

An irrational act

The dismissal of (former coordinating minister for political, social and security affairs Susilo Bambang) Yudhoyono on absurd pretexts shows that Gus Dur (President Abdurrahman Wahid) does indeed intend to issue an edict (in declaration of a state of emergency). In order to be able to immediately issue such a decree, he needs to ensure the support of the TNI (Indonesian Military).

In our opinion, declaring a state of emergency is the President's constitutional right. However, he can only use this authority if the situation is truly chaotic. It would be preposterous if the President should tell us that we must all live in an emergency situation while life is actually going on as normal.

The explanation that the nation would fall apart if or when Gus Dur is ousted is also exaggerated. What is most funny is that this threat of disintegration comes from Gus Dur himself, based on telephone conversations with a number of people.

Now several new figures have been announced as Cabinet ministers. It is rather difficult to comprehend that there are still people willing to be ministers in a government whose lifespan is no more than two months.

Again, it is most difficult for us to follow Gus Dur's thinking. The President is resorting to what seem like irrational acts in order to maintain his power, which is already hanging very much in the balance.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta