Free and fair -- well maybe?
It does seem rather strange to hear politicians or legislators complaining of other candidates or their parties that they are not being fair about this or that, when everyone knows there is nothing fair within or about politics. It is also not free, for the money is already on the move and votes are being bought and paid for.
It happens everywhere, and here as a matter of course -- it is therefore expected and it is gratefully received. It boils down more to a level of unfairness that can be tolerated by others, but to go beyond that line is perhaps not considered cricket. Those with the most cash can do the most paying, and those with nothing need not bother. Of course it is a buyers' market with such uncertainty about, as one can afford to make promises and then quickly forget them -- politicians are good at that! Sorry Pak, but thanks anyway for the cash and there's always 2009, as the double-crossers smile and have a field day.
At the moment anyone with any sense is hedging their bets, as lady luck has yet to display a clear path in this election. In a country where it's as easy to make an enemy as it is to find a paddy field, picking your friends could well resemble a minefield.
The grapevines are stretching and under pressure, votes are at a premium and the clock won't stop ticking. Razzmatazz time is rapidly approaching: the period of gong-banging, flag-waving and drum-pounding, and that little commotion just for the gyrating Inul, let alone what's in store for the "superstar politicians".
If the 1999 election campaign is anything to go by, then we are all in for a wonderful time, for this country sure does know how to turn on an amazing and exhilarating show. Let's hope it is the same, and let's also hope it is free of infiltration, religion, harassment, provocateurs, rhetoric, intimidation and violence.
In the land of mystics and wayang puppets, the dark side of Java knows nothing of free and fair, but has its influence gone away or is the sleeping dalang about to stir and pull a few strings -- now would that be fair?
DAVID WALLIS Medan, North Sumatra