GAM should surrender

GAM should surrender

From Koran Tempo

Some people have been voicing their disagreement to the integrated operation now being carried out in Aceh. They argue they are fighting for the well-being of the Acehnese and that the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) has grown because of unjust treatment, poverty and repression that the Acehnese suffered as a result of the province of Aceh being ruled under the terms of a military operation.

These people seem to forget that the government is trying to save the Acehnese, who have been gripped by fear and worry as a result of extortion, kidnapping, murder and other acts of terror perpetrated by GAM.

These people have never made any statement blaming GAM for all these acts of terrorism or labeled them traitors even though they know full well that for GAM, secession from the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia is a goal that cannot be compromised.

Obviously, no negotiations will ever bring any solution to the question of Aceh, as has been demonstrated by the Humanitarian Pause, the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement and even the Tokyo meeting.

War has now been declared in Aceh. To prevent this armed clash from claiming more lives, all parties, including politicians and human rights advocates, should get GAM to surrender, lay down its arms and return to the control of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.

The government has decided to extend an amnesty to GAM members that surrender to the terms of the Republic of Indonesia. GAM should consider this option so that it can help bring peace to the Acehnese.

RAHMA NURJANNAH

Jakarta