'Corruptors also deserve death sentence'

The execution of Indian national Ayodhya Prasadh Chaubey, 67, last week in Medan, North Sumatra, for drug smuggling has caused debate about capital punishment. The Jakarta Post asked residents for their opinion on the issue.

Anwar, 35, works for a company in Pulo Gadung, East Jakarta. He lives with his family in Petamburan, Central Jakarta:

I support the death sentence for drug traffickers because what they do causes serious problems for many people. Just imagine if your child was one of their victims. You would be very sad.

But I often hear that many police officers are willing to free drug suspects for a bribe. If that is the case, top police officers must stop this practice.

Corruptors also deserve the death sentence, but only those who steal large amounts of money. Such tough action will deter other people from engaging in corruption.

Rudy, 34, is an interior designer. He lives in Serpong, Tangerang:

I think the death sentence is inhumane. Governments around the world should stop imposing capital punishment.

I acknowledge that drug dealers do not care whether they hook young people, even children, on drugs. And in many cases, drug addiction leads to death. Therefore, drug dealers should be severely punished. But still, for me, the death sentence is too cold-blooded, too unfeeling.

I cannot imagine what Chaubey was feeling as he was standing in front of the firing squad.

--The Jakarta Post