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