Call for Islamic coalition

Call for Islamic coalition

From Republika

My suggestion in 2001 that only one Islamic party should be set up received a muted response from the Muslim party elite. In 2003 I attended three meetings with Islamic and Muslim-based parties to voice the same aspiration, but failed to secure any follow-up while general elections were approaching.

On Jan. 26, 2004, private TV station Lativi reported that five Islamic parties in North Sumatra had formed a coalition and in the elections will follow the one with the most votes. I was deeply moved and hope elites from Muslim parties across the country have been informed of the news.

I would suggest the Islamic coalition leaders in Medan should hold a public meeting at a mosque without displaying party symbols. A lecture could be delivered by a non-partisan Islamic scholar or teacher, who would emphasize Muslim brotherhood towards an Islamic unity. It would not be necessary for the party leaders -- sitting before their followers -- to speak.

In the coming campaign period, party leaders in the Islamic coalition should begin their election campaigns jointly instead of arranging individual rallies. I am convinced, by going back to the mosque, Islamic fraternity will get a considerable boost.

KH CHOLIL RIDWAN Jakarta