Election: What next?

The country's sixth election is less than two weeks away. Whatever the result of the election, one thing is clear (at least to me). The people want substantial change in the way the country is governed. First of all, there must not be collusion, corruption, manipulation and the like in all aspects of life (politics, economy, social and cultural affairs) any longer. A clean government must become reality. The government should take care of the interests of all people and do away with partiality.

Secondly, openness shouldn't be by spoken word, but should be reflected in practice with all honesty. The 1945 Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and the right to form a union. These freedoms and rights must be honored. A difference of opinion and legal movement should be looked upon as people's rights, so that they aren't suppressed on behalf of national stability and security. On the other hand, national stability and security can only be established through openness, honesty, mutual trust and by letting people exercise their freedoms of expression and forming a union.

Thirdly, law enforcement should be seriously implemented. The bureaucratic elite must be examples as law abiding officials and never indulge in the abuse of power, a frequent occurrence we witness these days. The people can then learn from their leaders in how to keep law and order. The Supreme Court must work on its own without being influenced by the ruling regime. Any law decreed by the Supreme Court contradictory to the 1945 Constitution should be declared null and void.

Further, we have to fully utilize national intellectual assets to the optimum advantage of people. This implies that experts who are not part of the ruling party be given a chance to join the cabinet or work in government institutions. Differences of political vision and perception should not bar them from dedicating their wisdom and life to the country.

I hope all these expectations of mine are not a sheer daydream.

W. PIENANDORO

Bogor, West Java