Apolitical soldiers

The new Army chief, Lt. Gen. Ryamizard Ryacudu, has reaffirmed his position as an apolitical and professional soldier. He also called on the press not to provoke the military to join the political struggle. Don't ask soldiers about political issues but ask them about war.

Times have changed. Yes, an apolitical and professional soldier is best for changing times because the soldier's politics is the state's politics, and not the political party's politics.

This is very important, especially since the government is submitting a bill on politics, which will give soldiers the same rights enjoyed by all Indonesian citizens, including the right to vote.

If the bill is passed into law, clearly it will be very important to have neutral soldiers.

Soldiers must say goodbye to the political arena and we have to welcome the new Army chief. General, we wish you luck in your work.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta