ASI's answer to nation's problems

Observing recent media reports on developments in our country ahead of the upcoming general election, we, the Alliance For a Single Indonesia (ASI), herewith express our deep concern and at the same time our disappointment regarding the tendency of political parties to discredit one another, especially regarding their presidential nominees.

In our opinion, it is not fair for political parties and politicians -- either directly or through third parties -- to discredit the presidential nominees of other political parties. This act reveals a lack of political maturity.

In this context, we wish to express the following: * Politicians, political party figures and the teams that political parties have set up to ensure the success of their presidential nominees in the presidential election, should introduce to the public their vision and mission in putting an end to the economic crisis and ensuring economic glory for the nation. They must come up with a solution to the economic crisis and encourage the public to hold debates about this matter. * Our people are politically intelligent and mature enough to be able to judge for themselves the quality of political parties during their election campaigns. * Every Indonesian should strive to bring back the glory of the nation and cull everything good from our experiences as a nation.

These three things, when properly implemented, will ensure that the upcoming general election will proceed smoothly and that the country's economy will improve within a short time.

BUDI PURNOMO General Chairman of ASI Jakarta