Govt told to respect political principles

Govt told to respect political principles

SEMARANG, Central Java (JP): The chairman of a powerful
workers organization affiliated with the ruling Golkar group
said yesterday that there are certain political principles that
cannot be violated.

SOKSI chairman Suhardiman said during a meeting of the
organization's members that a "consolidation of values" was
needed to ensure that the principles are not ignored and that the
public's trust is maintained.

He explained that there are five political principles which
the New Order regime must adhere to. The first, he said, is that
the government should not act in any way that could cause
disenchantment among the people.

He emphasized this by pointing out that the government's power
and legitimacy comes from the people. It comes from the people,
by the people and for the people, Suhardiman said.

The second taboo is that the government must not resort to
measures which could impede the people's thoughts, views and
aspirations for a better life, he said.

The third is the need for the government to set a high moral
standard for the people.

"Don't set a bad example for the people," said Suhardiman, who
is also a member of the Supreme Advisory Council.

Suhardiman then stressed the need for those in the New Order
administration to remain open and sensitive to the voices of the
people. He added that they must remain open to the people who
favor democratization.

The fifth and final point Suhardiman cited was the importance
of a clean and honest government.

"Refrain from corruption and collusion and avoid political
speculation and manipulation," he said.

SOKSI originated from a military-backed workers union in the
early 1960s to fight the growing influence of communism.

Together with other organizations it formed Golkar as its
political arm in 1964. As Golkar gained strength as the ruling
faction in the New Order, SOKSI has retained its identity and
continues to operate within the ruling political group.(har/mds)