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