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