Independence Day and nationalism

From Kompas

The presence of former presidents and vice-presidents would have enhanced the atmosphere for the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of Indonesia's independence recently. It seems that no former chief executives have attended the ceremony since the change of president.

Probably they were not invited, or were invited but failed to attend. Anyway, their absence reflects a lack of nationalism and patriotism.

The former leaders' reluctance to participate in the commemoration may have been due to their emotional attitudes, being reminded of the past periods of election campaigns. However, figures of great character would have overcome such emotions in dealing with friends or foes.

Meanwhile, on the same occasion the government should have granted free toll road passage for one full day (on August 17). With the remission given to thousands of inmates, who may have harmed the interests of the state and society, a day-long exemption from highway tolls would have been proper.

JAMES PANGAU Depok, West Java