Ignoring public aspirations

Ignoring public aspirations

From Kompas

Amid the worsening economic, political, legal, cultural, educational situation in the country, the public have become sick and tired of the political elite's behavior. Many intellectuals who occupy government positions have simply ignored public aspirations.

Where is the idealism they touted for in the past? Everything has been shattered and engulfed by their lust for power, wealth and other temptations. They no longer have sympathy toward the socially disadvantaged.

The nation now needs an elite who are concerned about public suffering and are honest, have a high sense of morality and social justice and are close to God, instead of figures who simply have titles, experience, popularity, opinions and countless opportunities. National leaders must conduct a simple way of living and adopt an unpretentious manner. Their comments must be reflected in their behavior.

The current situation just worsens social inequalities, encourages materialism, hedonism, permissiveness and leads to the prevalence of crime and constant disregard for the country's gloomy situation. Corruption, collusion and nepotism (KKN), manipulation and moral decadence prevail today, while the public have to stand around watching the perverseness of the elite. They must be aware that it is thanks to the poor that they are rich.

ABDUL HAKIM

Jakarta