Concern about PPP

Concern about PPP

From Merdeka

I am deeply concerned about the condition of PPP (United
Development Party). If we examine the roles of the Moslems since
the beginning of the Indonesian struggle for independence we will
notice that the roles experienced ups and downs. The Moslems
played an important role in every crisis that took place in this
country, be it social, economic or political in nature. But after
the crisis was over the role faded away, and other groups
benefited from the situation.

In the New Order era, following the abortive communist coup
attempt in 1965, for example, the role of Moslems was significant
but later it declined considerably. This was caused by the fact
that the Moslem leadership was weakening.

PPP, a fusion of some Islamic political parties, should
recognize this reality and make an effort to raise the position
of Moslems in this republic. Historically, PPP is linked with the
Moslems. In its development many members give their support to
other organizations. In this context, the laws which regulate the
political party system should be revised, e.g. the laws on
political parties and the Golkar functional group, on elections
and on the systems and status of the People's Consultative
Assembly (MPR), House of Representatives (DPR) and the regional
legislative bodies. The materials contained in these laws are
incapable of accommodating all aspirations of the people who have
been increasingly critical and dynamic.

In the coming congress the PPP leaders should do more in the
interest of the Moslems, the nation and the country.
Rivalries over obtaining rank within the party should be
overcome. We need political leaders who are qualified and capable
of presenting clear concepts to lead the party, those with self-
reliance and high sensitivity about the prevailing situation.
Election of the leadership should not be based on charisma
inherited from one's forefathers, which will only worsen the
situation.

H. LUKMAN SIREGAR

A. RAHMAN SYAMSUDIN

Former (PSII) executives