Channeling people's aspirations

Channeling people's aspirations

From Pelita

The development of political activities is getting hotter. In all occasions the media are reporting on the prevailing conflicts which tend to benefit an individual or a group. The application of democracy in this country during the past two years seems to have stressed the "people's sovereignty", which is taken to mean "freedom" but disrespects other basic elements of human aspects.

It has been quite common for a group of people to express themselves by way of a demonstration, instead of channeling their aspirations to the House of Representatives. And, worse still, they hold their demonstrations ignoring the existing regulations. They tend to brutality and impose their demands, which often results in violence. What entails is a confrontation between the demonstrators and the apparatuses.

Many perceive such a phenomenon as a common event, thinking that Indonesian democracy in still in its infancy. There is some truth in that idea. But a right solution should be sought so that the democracy can be applied properly.

Many scholars are of the opinion that the application of democracy in Indonesia should conform with universal values. But they should also consider local values, because not all which is universal is in harmony with the local culture and environment.

HASRIL HAMID AN

Bekasi, West Java