Ita's murder

I was both upset and angry over the killing of a rape victim counselor, which was reported in The Jakarta Post on Oct. 10.

Over the past few months, we have been hearing doubts from both the progovernment people and the military that the rapes had indeed happened, saying that there has been no proof of the rapes taking place and ignoring the fact that the rape victims, and the voluntary workers who are trying to help them, have been threatened by an organized group of people who seem to know every move they make.

The police keep encouraging the victims and witnesses to come forward and give their testimony by giving them assurances that their identity will be kept secret. Not once have I heard that they also assured them that their safety is guaranteed. Please correct me if I'm mistaken.

It is disgusting that after 53 years of independence, victims are still treated as criminals while the real criminals are given the royal treatment of innocent, until proven guilty. Money talks, of course.

I guess for the next few weeks we will be hearing all manner of excuses about motives behind the killing beside the counselor's involvement with the voluntary organization. I doubt the police will admit their mistake and offer a sincere apology to Ita's family, other volunteers and the victims for not looking after their safety.

To Ita's family, I would like to offer my deepest condolences. I admire her courage in her effort to reveal the truth. It is only with truth and dignity somebody should live and die. And at a very young age, she has proven that.

For the other voluntary workers and the victims, I hope Ita's death will not discourage you all. Most of the time, truth is more painful than lies but in the end, truth will shine like the sun, and those of the so-called elite in this country had better be prepared to face the consequences.

M. TJAHYADI

Jakarta