Freedom from fear

Freedom from fear

Communists, formless organizations, security disturbance
movement or whatever, are all referred to as ghosts determined to
destroy the unity of this country. The people's fear of these
ghosts and the accusations made by security authorities that some
intellectuals are involved in "formless organizations" and
comments from accused intellectuals can be read in The Jakarta
Post's Oct. 18, 1995 issue.

Our concern is not the publication of the arguments between
the opposing sides, but rather the crazy debates that tend to go
on and on. And the so-called ghosts (which are formless) are
always blamed for the breakout of such incidents as Nipah, Kedung
Ombo, etc.

The Indonesian nation is notorious for its liking of and
belief in different kinds of "ghosts." And it remains so up till
now. This is evident from the films, stories and popular cultural
activities which mention the existence of "ghosts." However, I am
strongly irritated by the exploitation of these "ghosts" either
for economic or political purposes.

I wonder what will become of this nation? In spite of the fact
that we have celebrated our golden independence anniversary, we
are still not free of fear of the mentioned "ghosts." When will
this fear end?

ARIEF W. DJATI

Surabaya, East Java