HMI and power

HMI and power

From Republika

I am referring to the article concerning the Islamic Students
Association (HMI) (March 21, 1997). The article presented
controversial opinions about HMI's close relationship with the
government or the power. As a former activist of HMI I am openly
criticizing the statement of a number of HMI alumni and chairman
of the HMI board: "What's wrong with HMI being in close
relationship with the government?" Or "It's natural that HMI is
close to the power."

My view is that students should, by nature, keep a distance
from the power. This does not mean that they should be opposed to
the government. They should stay outside the power circle so that
they can have objective views on the government's policies.

It is better for the students to be close to the people
instead of being close to the power. The people have no power and
very often become victims of power abuses. And power abuse can
only be found in the party that holds power.

I remember Amien Rais, chairman of Muhammadiyah, and a HMI
alumni, saying that Muhammadiyah's support of the New Order
government is not without reserve. It gives its support as long
as the government is true to its commitment to build a democratic
society, to uphold the truth and justice, and still has the
spirit to fight corruption and collusion.

I hope that HMI still retains its character and ideal in its
mission.

JUDIKHERRY JUSTAM

Jakarta