Civil servants told not to make political comments

Civil servants told not to make political comments

JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Home Affairs Moch. Yogie S.M.
yesterday ordered the country's four million-strong civil
servants to refrain from making political comments as the country
prepares for the 1997 general election.

"We must try not to dramatize political issues. We have to
exercise restraint," Yogie, who also is chairman of the Civil
Service Corps, said during a get-together with members.

"The public is easily drawn to political activities,
especially as elections are just around the corner," he said
during the meeting to celebrate Moslem's Isra Miraj (Prophet
Muhammad Ascension) Day held at his office.

It is best not to comment, "if your comments could make things
worse", he said, adding that comments by members of the civil
service could also be exploited by certain parties to further
their interests.

Although civil servants by law are required to stay neutral,
Korpri leaders have maintained that members should vote for
Golkar, the ruling political group. Korpri members have also been
mobilized in the past to take part in Golkar's political rallies.

Yogie also used the occasion yesterday to remind civil
servants of the need to strengthen their dedication to their
work.

He said the families of civil servants are also expected to
support this endeavor and to show greater understanding about the
general condition of government employees. "I feel it necessary
to stress the meaning of dedication and honesty," he said. (anr)