Hanging for provocateurs
The conflicts stemming from ethnicity, religion, race and group relations (SARA) which have erupted in many regions have caused great concern in all layers of communities throughout Indonesia. Endeavors to alleviate and to stop the riotous fights between community groups in a number of regions in Maluku (Ambon) and Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, continue to take place, including actions for peace and joint statements issued by religious dignitaries in Jakarta as well as on the site of the unrest. But the efforts have not shown satisfying results. The intergroup clashes seem to expand to other regions.
One of the reasons is said to be that many high-ranking officials in Jakarta are behind the clashes. They generally spread rumors in the regions. The aim is to disturb the peaceful life of the people. Religion being a sensitive matter, any small problem touching on it can flare up the religious sentiments of the population so it is not easy to solve the problem in a short time.
Recent information tells us that provocateurs have infiltrated 17 provinces in Indonesia. Sooner or later their actions will upset the community and trigger national disintegration, especially by conflicts among religious groups. Therefore, moved by my great concern, I appeal to the people in all the provinces to step up national awareness, and not be influenced easily by misleading information from irresponsible sides. Apparently this awareness is now at a low because of the economic crisis. It makes the community easy prey to rumors.
I hereby also ask the government and security personnel to not hesitate in taking firm measures against high-ranking officials in Jakarta who are behind the provocateurs. If necessary, it is time to sentence them to death by hanging. Their actions are intolerable. They have caused the death of thousands of innocent people while they keep on dancing on the ruination of the community, nation and country. What fitting penalty can they be given? Death by hanging, because their deeds are inhuman.
YAYU LESTARI
Jakarta