Demanding Gus Dur's resignation

Demanding Gus Dur's resignation

From Rakyat Merdeka

To demand President Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid step down now is unconstitutional, as he is already responding to the first memorandum of the House of Representatives (DPR).

If the House is satisfied with the President's response, there should be no problem. However, if the House is unsatisfied, there will be yet another memorandum. And if there is more dissatisfaction, the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) will hold a special session.

For the sake of the nation, I am joining the chorus of demands for Gus Dur's resignation. The resignation demand, however, should not only be directed at him, but also at those who elected him, since they know exactly who Gus Dur is, both his habits and health.

They insisted that he become president under the pretext of the Constitution and authority of the MPR, while disregarding their own conscience, ethics and political appropriateness. They should be fully aware of these facts and must admit their blunder. Without introspection, we are not likely to find justice.

And, perhaps, it would be a different story and justice would be meted out, if the elite responsible for Gus Dur's election go to see him and together they agree to resign to redeem their sins.

Leave the fate of country to those who have political legitimacy, who can run the state for the victory of the nation. Without any agreement made with those responsible for making Gus Dur president, it would be unfair to call on his resignation.

Mega is not ready and will not become president as long as justice is ignored, or unless an MPR special session is convened to successfully force Gus Dur's resignation through constitutional means.

Mega should not respond to any lobbying now. She lost to Gus Dur constitutionally, and it is by constitution that she should respond to the support rendered to her.

I strongly believe Mega will be able to set an example for the country's Constitution-abiding people. She is ensuring that things progress and are fulfilled through the correct institution. I am proud that she is able to restrain herself and stay on the right track.

MAKMOER MOECHSIN

Jakarta