Fences around MPR/DPR improper

Fences around MPR/DPR improper

From Kompas

The construction of fences four-meters high around the
People's Consultative Assembly (MPR)/House of Representatives
(DPR) building as reported in Kompas (October 25) is in my view
questionable.

First, to my knowledge, the Jakarta provincial government bans
the erection of fences more than three meters high. If the
construction continues, the MPR/DPR violates the provincial
regulation and Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso should take action.

Second, the presence of such fences is improper because there
should be no barriers between representatives and the people they
represent. The roadblocks indicate the MPR/DPR's reluctance to
communicate with the public, while their activities are financed
by taxes.

Third, the MPR/DPR budget should not be spent on projects that
are not beneficial to society. The country has only limited
funds, which should be utilized only for priority projects. The
population is facing hard times as a consequence of fuel price
hikes.

J. HALIM
Jakarta