JP/NATIONAL NEWS

'Black' politicians

Hundreds of activists for democracy, hailing from various non- governmental organizations (NGOs), converged yesterday at Proklamasi Monument in Jakarta to declare the National Movement of Anti-Black Politicians.

Politicians considered bad, or "black", are those found to have been implicated in corruption, abuse of power, human rights violations, sex and drug scandals as well as in projects damaging the environment and other immoral conduct harmful to the people.

The declaration constitutes an early campaign against "black" politicians, as the NGOs were expected to make such a move across Indonesia.

The movement deserves the full support of all parties to uphold the country's dignity and to improve the national condition.

The 2004 general elections must be made a success by electing leaders who give priority to people's interest. We are fed up with "black" politicians who have been taken over the reins in the political arena.

-- Republika, Jakarta