Extension of martial law

Extension of martial law

From Media Indonesia

The government has decided to extend martial law in Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam for another six months. At this moment the Indonesian government and the Indonesian people have only one goal, namely to restore order in the province as soon as possible without any political calculations that have links with the upcoming 2004 general election. Ideally, the Acehnese will be able to take part in this election freely and peacefully.

The second phase of martial law has earned support from many parties as it brings with it an intensification in the economic restoration operation, following the return to normal of overland transportation. The Aceh administration has also resumed its function.

Aceh must be saved from the separatist Free Aceh Movement as this concerns the authority of the state, territorial integrity and the safety of the Acehnese.

ERWIN GUNAWAN Bogor, West Java