Canings for embezzlers

Canings for embezzlers

From Koran Tempo

At least 15 out of 26 gamblers in Bireuen regency, Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam, were caned in public recently as the implementation of sharia law, based on Aceh's special status and autonomy.

The execution of this punishment, which received domestic and foreign attention, got a positive public response. Local citizens proposed that canings should apply not only to gamblers, rapists and alcoholics but also to those found guilty of corruption.

The Aceh people's appeal is proper because of the deep social gap between the masses and bureaucrats in the region, who are generally too rich for their salaries. The situation triggers dissatisfaction, apathy and prejudice in society.

In my view, embezzlers now widespread in Aceh not only deserve canings but also capital punishment as shock therapy and a deterrent. The government should not be discriminatory and unfair. Corruption involving billions of rupiah is only liable to about 10 years in prison based on the criminal law.

Furthermore, the Islamic law should also apply to members of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) found perpetrating crimes against humanity. So, if severe penalties are imposed on embezzlers and GAM followers, no more social and separatist crimes are expected to appear in Aceh.

TENGKU JALI S. RAMDHANI Jakarta