Civilians must have their say

Civilians must have their say

It remains unknown how much say civilians will have in shaping
reform within the military and deciding the latter's place in
Indonesian society. Nonetheless, The Jakarta Post's recent
interviews with George Aditjondro and Cornelis Lay show that the
progress of the reform movement will stagnate if serious measures
are not taken to send the military back to the barracks.

In China, Premier Zhu Rongji has been pushing hard for an end
to military involvement in business. Although regarded as part of
the country's effort to reform the economic sector, Zhu's policy
is also seen as an attempt to make the People's Liberation Army
(PLA) more professional.

Despite encountering continued resistance from numerous
military leaders, the government's efforts have shown some
success. And to compensate for the PLA's retreat from the
economy, Beijing has pumped funds generously into military
coffers for force modernization and doctrinal evolution purposes.

Just like the Indonesian Military (TNI), the PLA became
involved in business in an effort to raise operational funds.
However, as the Chinese economy developed, the military's
business ventures showed inefficiency and were actually causing
harm to the country's overall economic progress. Moreover,
special privileges given to military businesses divided the
society as it caused serious discontent among civilians.

Although it may appear overly simplistic, Indonesia can
certainly learn a lesson or two from the Chinese government's
decision. This may be feasible, especially considering warming
ties between the two governments.

In Indonesia, the military's image may have been tarnished by
its past wrongdoings and frequent excessive use of violence.
However, addressing the need for a reconsideration of the dual
function doctrine and the benefits of military businesses should
not be necessarily seen as anti-militaristic.

These views should be seen as complements to growing voices
within the military demanding structural and doctrinal changes.

TNI remains a crucial institution for defending the nation
against foreign and internal dangers. Also, amid growing
decentralization sentiments, the military provides the glue for
preserving national unity. However, what Indonesia truly needs is
a focused, professional and accountable TNI, i.e., a military
whose interests are not distracted by continuous meddling in
politics and the economy.

SANTO DARMOSUMARTO

Bekasi, West Java