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