How to manage Indonesia
If Indonesians know their rights and obligations, are tolerant and law-abiding, then I think running this country would not be a difficult job.
Let us examine why it would not be difficult. First, we have a solid constitutional foundation which is the 1945 Constitution, and a strong philosophical guidance, Pancasila. So we know exactly how to lead a constitutional life, supported by the historically well-tested Pancasila philosophy.
Second, people's aspirations. What has to be accomplished? The whole population through their representatives in the House of Representatives and the People's Consultative Assembly, decide what should be done. The people's will and guidance are molded into what we call the Broad Outlines of the State Policy (GBHN). This is not only a product of the "green" people, or of the "yellow", or the "red", nor the "whites". The GBHN is a national product, which is to be carried out for the benefit of society. From the speeches in the recently ended campaign we know more or less what people want.
In short, the people, whether they are common citizens, laborers, or government officials, want a general improvement of their lives. This is a fundamental and basic target.
They want a clean government and the abolishment of corruption, collusion, grafts, bribery, illegal levies etc. They want an improved and efficient bureaucracy with fewer regulations to prevent or minimize the misuse of authority. Only a clean government can guarantee that everything is done according to the existing regulations, that everybody is treated equally before the law. This will ensure there is no nepotism.
Third, the tool to achieve the target. We have a clear basis and clear aspirations. But these are not enough. We must have someone capable, experienced and trustworthy to implement all of the above. This is where the election of the president and vice president come in. They are the only officials who are elected to do what the people want them to do. The people want their aspirations translated into actions to benefit the whole nation. In doing so, they are under strict supervision of the House and assembly to ensure they do not deviate from the Broad Outlines of the State Policy.
In carrying out his task, the President will choose assistants who can understand and cooperate with him. In this context, it is not important which group his assistants come from as long as they assist the President and the responsibility is entirely on the President's shoulders. This is one reason why we have no opposition in the country. We all have to work together and cooperate to make Indonesia strong and prosperous.
SOEGIH ARTO
Jakarta