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