Do not push TNI into a corner

From Media Indonesia

Referring to a letter by Yuddy Chrisnandi on the way the commission of inquiry into human rights abuses in East Timor (KPP HAM) presented its report, I think it is too trite an approach for the commission to divulge the names of high-ranking officers suspected of involvement in human rights abuses in East Timor.

There was no need to mention names; the rank or position would have sufficed. The commission's statement to the press has given rise to the public opinion that those accused were involved in the abuses, even though it has yet to be proved through legal procedures.

The commission should not proceed in this manner in their inquiry. It is said to want to protect the Indonesian Military (TNI) from an international court hearing, but it has created an impression that it is cornering TNI. What is its purpose? As reported by Tempo magazine, the language of the chairman of the UN commission of investigation (CIET) is more courteous and sensitive to the feelings of the Indonesian people in its statements.

Chrisnandi has advised that TNI remain in legal channels, which is correct because it will not be blamed anymore. I am not defending the high-ranking officers, but I do not agree with the commission's way of making statements. The commission should maintain the principle of the presumption of innocence. It is clear many Indonesians still love TNI.

S. SARASWATI

Jakarta