Cooling down the political temperature

Cooling down the political temperature

Are we turning into a nation of looters, rapists, murderers
and arsonists, or are we being punished by God for our cowardly
acts in rectifying the decades-old abuse of power?

Riots have been breaking out all across this vast archipelago,
and always for trivial reasons. Lately, riots have been erupting
for what appears to be ethnic, racial, religious and inter-group
sensitivity.

The economic downturn has certainly contributed to the
feverish behavior of the people. For those who are suddenly cut
off from their means of livelihood, a slight provocation is
enough to kindle violent acts.

We, of course, cannot let these people continue their rash and
dangerous behavior, because their drastic actions could have an
immense impact on the country's economic recovery. The general
public, especially those on the lowest rungs of society who are
prone to provocations, needs to be calmed down by government and
religious leaders.

And all members of the society should endeavor not to react so
easily to provocations.

-- Republika, Jakarta