Death threat and right to live

Death threat and right to live

I totally disagree when a person caught red handed for stealing a motor-cycle is beaten to death by a mob. Once again a pickpocket was caught stealing, immediately beaten and then burned to death. I don't agree with this type of street justice. I disagree also with the apparent threat to kill Tommy Soeharto who was sentenced by the court to 18 months in jail.

All the actions above are an indication of cruelty. If a criminal had to face death in this manner it certainly would not be fair punishment. Tommy is guilty for his wrong doings, and, in fact, has accepted his punishment for 18-month imprisonment, but still he is entitled to basic human rights like everyone else.

It is true that as a convict Tommy will lose some of his rights, e.g. he cannot take part in a sports car rally and other activities. However, as an individual, like other members of the society, he still has his most fundamental right as a human being namely, the right to live, even while in prison.

I cannot understand what is behind the motive of the threat to kill Tommy. I speak to those who are possibly involved. If you are dissatisfied with the sentence passed by the court, why are you targeting the guilty party and not the court as an institution?

I appeal to the government: As far as human rights are concerned, the government is obliged to protect its citizens, including Tommy. Under this ruling, if one day Tommy is to surrender himself and is ready to serve the jail sentence, the security apparatus should be able to protect him from any death threats. This should not be taken to mean a discriminative action however, it is the responsibility on the part of the government to ensure safe protection to all its citizens. Please keep in mind that the international community has been aware of Tommy's plight and the threat against his life. If something should happen to Tommy, while serving his jail sentence, I fear that Indonesia's image will plummet, both in the eyes of the Indonesian people and the world at large.

I sincerely call on Tommy to honor the court's decision, no matter how hard that may be and surrender yourself to the government. Because the government surely cannot give you the necessary protection if you remain a wanted person. Your chance to be granted a judicial review is still available even though you would be in prison.

HANDOKO

Jakarta