Beware of potential for riots: Soesilo

JAKARTA (JP): The government believes that despite the passing of the general election and the recent absence of riots there is still great potential for unrest.

Coordinating Minister for Political Affairs and Security Soesilo Soedarman urged all community groups yesterday to beware of this potential which could plunge the country into more unrest.

But at yesterday's press conference after a monthly limited meeting of the ministries under his coordination, Soesilo refused to say what he meant by potential.

"In principle, there is still much potential (for unrest) but I don't want to elaborate. I am just talking about something strategic, people will understand when I remind them of the potential, and they will be on guard," he said.

Yesterday's meeting was attended by Minister of Home Affairs Moch. Yogie S.M., Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas, Minister of Defense and Security Edi Sudradjat, Minister of Justice Oetojo Oesman, Minister of Information R. Hartono, Minister of Manpower Abdul Latief and Attorney General Singgih.

Armed Forces Chief Gen. Feisal Tanjung did not attend the meeting, but was represented by State Intelligence chief Maj. Gen. Moetojib and Armed Forces Intelligence chief Maj. Gen. Farid Zainudin.

Soesilo said the meeting had concluded that the country's politics and security were "safe and under control".

"The meeting calls on all of society to maintain this orderly and calm condition to help secure next year's People's Consultative Assembly's general session to elect a president," he said.

Soesilo said the ministers deplored the violence and violations which marred the May 29 general election, although the voter turnout rate had exceeded 90 percent.

"The general election proceeded in a direct, public, free, and confidential manner. All election contestants (parties) have signed the final results... as for the violations, that are still left (to be handled), the government will investigate them," he said.

Soesilo said the meeting had thanked the Armed Forces for "patiently and procedurally" safeguarding the election so it was successful.

Soesilo reiterated yesterday the government's call for the public to continue the National Discipline Drive which his office initiated two years ago.

"Now is the time to re-discipline ourselves... we've urged government officials to boost the drive by providing better public service," Soesilo said.

Asked if the discipline drive would include fighting widespread corruption and collusion, Soesilo said: "It's needless to say.

"The three poll contestants promised during campaigning to fight corruption and collusion. The only thing to do now is start in the name of Allah," he said. (aan)