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)