Be a national hero

Be a national hero

From Republika

In view of the uncertainty enveloping our beloved Indonesia, I, as an individual with the right and the obligation to help build a civilized united Indonesia, feel terribly sad over the behavior shown by our political elite in leading this country. They have glaringly demonstrated their greed and avarice for power in their daily activities. Mass mobilization to shape an opinion or a show of force are not the only way toward democracy. As national leaders, you are responsible for the country's economic and political stability.

Stop any psychological warfare among you. Remember that man is not flawless. The reform drive now under way is not solely attributable to you. It is a process involving all of us.

The Indonesian people extend to you the responsibility to build this country and therefore you must strive for the welfare of the nation and not simply in the interest of individuals or your own groups.

Keep on struggling. May you go down in history as national heroes worth remembering for all times and not as pioneers in the destruction of the Indonesian nation.

ANDY HARTONO SUMITRO

Jakarta