Appeal to politicians

Appeal to politicians

From Media Indonesia

Recently many politicians have been giving the Megawati
administration a rap over the knuckles, particularly with regards
her policy to hike fuel prices and utility rates.

It is of course legal to voice one's aspirations or criticism,
or to offer a constructive advise to an individual or the
government. But now, their criticism tends to be focused on her
administration's policies. It is strange because her cadres and
the politicians are in the Cabinet and form an integral part of
the administration who are also responsible for the running of
the government.

Politicians should know better than to voice sharp criticism
of her policies. They, instead, should fully concentrate on
drafting laws to pave the way for the 2004 general election which
will be a means to save democracy and usher in a new era for
Indonesia.

The failure of the House of Representatives and the government
to finish this task will make Indonesia sink deeper into the mire
of protracted crisis.

Therefore, politicians should act wisely and together foster
the spirit of nationalism and nationhood as well to create a
conducive political atmosphere, rather than making room for
confrontation. Instead of talking about revised-price hikes, they
should feel the sufferings of the people.

ADHE SOEMANTO, Jakarta