Clashes unavoidable
Clashes unavoidable
From Pikiran Rakyat
Clashes between supporters of the People's Awakening Party
(PKB) and the United Development Party (PPP) in Jepara (Pikiran
Rakyat, May 2) and similar happenings in the run-up to the
general election are "unavoidable" indeed. Why must they take
place? Because it must be admitted that there is only a small
number of followers who know the ins and outs of the general
election.
There are at least three things people should know.
First, people should know what the objective is of the general
election. Second, people should know the role and function of
legislative candidates. Third, people should know their party's
mission and vision. As long as these three things are not
understood by a party's followers or sympathizers, there will
possibly be clashes between party supporters whenever and
wherever they meet.
It is compulsory for party leaders and cadres to give
political education to followers and sympathizers. Party leaders
should not only state that they deplore and condemn clashes after
one takes place, they should also take concrete measures to avoid
similar clashes in the future.
It is time for party followers to realize that there are more
important things than parades and joining convoys without knowing
what it is all about.
Clashes harm people: children, husbands, wives, parents,
siblings. Political people only voice their concern, regret and
condemnation.
What is more important now is to know who are the prospective
legislators in a chosen party. Candidates unknown to us may not
or do not want to understand our aspirations. It is even possible
that they are unfamiliar with the area of the province they
represent.
We must understand all this instead of taking to the streets
in great numbers. Apart from preventing clashes, it could train
us to become more mature in politics and to be ready to differ
with and appreciate other people's opinions.
Let us build this country with a mature outlook on things
including politics. Let a victory in the general election this
time be a victory for the entire population.
TARJONO
Bandung