Dual role of the Armed Forces

Dual role of the Armed Forces

From Jayakarta

People are now discussing the function of the Armed Forces'
dual role, and it is interesting to know that there are different
opinions on this matter. Basically, every country recognizes this
dual role system, both in military and civilian circles.

The military is involved in civilian affairs whenever the
country is in a state of war. But in this country the dual role
of the Armed Forces is rather overdone. We have to make it work
proportionally. Political science teaches us that the Armed
Forces are a second force in upholding the integrity of the
administration, while philosophers are ranked first in the
civilian government.

In countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and others,
elderly scholars devote their lives to their country. On the
contrary, philosophers as well as scholars are not fully utilized
here, resulting in the presence of military personnel in the
civilian sector.

In western countries the military has a substantial role to
play, too. In the U.S., for example, former presidents Kennedy,
Carter, Bush and many others, came from a military background.
Their implementation of a dual role is based on "fair play."
Children were put in military academies at the expense of their
respected families, free from a government draft. After
graduating, they were placed in dangerous war zones. If they
proved themselves to be meritorious, their families would call
them back to handle their business. When they grew up they could
run in elections for prominent government positions, and if they
had enough influence, they could go for the presidency.

The dual role is known and practiced in every country in the
world. This is because the military is a well-organized,
professional group. No other group has so strong an association
as the military. It is understandable that many military
personnel become leaders of this nation, but what matters most is
that they function in their role in a fair way.

MULYA

Jakarta