Beware of hoodlums
The Indonesian word preman(hoodlums) originates from the Dutch word vrije man which means "free man". While most people are happy to be a free, it is not recommended that you become a preman.
The city administration has decided to round up these hoodlums for disturbing public order by robbing pedestrians, blackmailing and extorting money from shopkeepers or owners of small food stalls and whoever they think can be harassed. You can also hire these hoodlums to "get rid" of your political opponents or business partners. No wonder the preman is a free man. He is unemployed.
During the elections, some political parties turn to these hoodlums for protection or to threaten their opponents. It is believed that there were, among the supporters of President Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid who came to Jakarta to show their loyalty to their leader when he was facing criticism and threats of impeachment from legislators, some hoodlums -- professional and amateur.
The first time these loyalists from East and Central Java visited the capital city, they left behind mountains of trash and dirt, including human waste, inside the compound of the House of Representatives (DPR). Security officials, including the Army and police, have warned visitors to the capital city, whether they are here to observe the proceedings of the DPR or otherwise, not to carry guns, grenades, sickles or swords with them.
On April 30, 2001, the DPR will decide whether to issue a second memorandum of censure against Gus Dur. The second memorandum can pave the way for impeachment proceedings against the President. Gus Dur's fanatical supporters have promised that they will gather in Jakarta before April 30.
It is a pity that even to the democrats in this country, democracy and democratic practices are very hard to implement without resorting to violence.
When hoodlums are completely rooted out from this country, hopefully with the death of corruption, which seems a long, long way off, school children may raise the national flag and celebrate.
GANDHI SUKARDI
Jakarta