Demos on Saturdays

I would like to support the appeal from Mr. Soegih Arto as indicated in his letter of Dec. 3, 1998. However, I would like to add that if the students wish to continue their demonstrations, albeit in smaller numbers as suggested by Mr. Soegih Arto, that they conduct them on Saturdays. My arguments are as follows:

On Saturdays: 1) many offices are closed and so there would be less traffic; 2) less discomfort would be caused, especially to those who rely on public transport; 3) greater empathy may be gained from law enforcers.

That way, on Mondays through Fridays the students could concentrate on their studies. Besides, they could save their money for other purposes. The security troops could concentrate on maintaining security in the city and deal more intensively with crimes often committed at intersections and many vulnerable places, including toll roads.

D. DJOEMHANA

Jakarta