Fulfilling a promise
The main story in Republika (July 27, 1999), mentions a statement made by the general chairman of the Central Executive Board of the United Development Party (PPP), Hamzah Haz. He is quoted as saying that if supporters of one particular party slightly prick their thumbs so that blood flows and then make finger prints, PPP supporters are likewise willing to sacrifice their lives to uphold the truth.
In connection with the key word truth, allow me to ask Mr. Hamzah Haz the following questions:
1. Is it true that during the election campaign you promised to give up your position as general chairman of the PPP if the party failed to obtain 20 percent of the total votes?
2. If the answer to the question in point one is yes, then, for whatever reason, is it the right attitude on your part to stick to the position of PPP general chairman, when PPP obtained less than 20 percent of the total votes? Doesn't it mean that you have broken your own promise?
3. If you, as the highest leader in your party, are not willing to give up your position as PPP general chairman to fulfill your own promise, which may be taken as upholding the truth, is it right for you to demand that your supporters sacrifice their lives?
4. In 1997, members and supporters of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) extended considerable support to PPP in what was known as the Mega-Bintang phenomenon. As a result, PPP's vote in the 1997 polls was considerably higher than that of the 1992 elections. Now, is it true that in exchange for this significant support you have now rejected Megawati as a presidential candidate simply because she is a woman?
5. Is it true that in its campaign PPP promised to nominate "one of its own personnel/PPP cadre" as its presidential candidate? If this is true, why is PPP nominating Gus Dur as a presidential candidate from the central axis, a faction spearheaded by the PPP? Isn't it another example of PPP breaking its own promise?
Wouldn't it be more ethical and supportive of you to support Megawati as a presidential candidate? This action would show not only that you would repay your indebtedness to PDI Perjuangan, but also that you really understand the essence of democracy, considering that PDI Perjuangan is the winner in the June 7 polls.
As a fellow Muslim, allow me to remind you to keep your promise to give up your present position as PPP general chairman in order that your self-respect may be maintained. Leave it to the party to elect its new general chairman. PPP has an adequate supply of prospective and able leaders, such as Mr. Zarkasih Noor, Mr. Faisal Baasir and Mr. Tosari Wijaya.
I hope Mr. Hamzah Haz may find time to reflect upon the questions above, and that this reflection may remind him in future that a leader must not make promises too easily or return a kindness with spite.
H. WISDARMANTO
Jakarta