Just for once vote with passion

Everybody knows that feeling of optimism. Those times when you truly believe things will get better as there is a strong light at the end of the tunnel. This could be the case in the lead up to the 2004 general election. The closer it comes, the stronger are the voices of those who really want to see the state of the country reflect its wonderful people.

At the moment, the big political parties have it all their own way. That is not likely to change for a while at least. But optimism is apparent in the messages and mission-statements of the smaller parties, which are fighting the up-hill battle to persuade the Indonesian people to change their own destiny.

There is real passion and a longing to see this nation rise to a level that will enable Indonesians everywhere to feel proud of their birthplace and their achievements.

The last five years have been so bad politically, that this in many ways has driven home the desperate need to be free of corruption and deceit. At the end of the day, the smaller parties may not achieve all of their goals, but what they have already done is to put larger political parties to shame. These established parties have not only wasted the last five years, but have plunged this country into a state of moral decline.

In any other field those responsible would be sacked or accused of treason. This situation, in which the entire population is controlled by 5 percent, is not unusual. But once every five years there is a real chance to upset the apple cart, and in April 2004 such an opportunity will arise. Is it going to be business as usual, or are there enough people out there with the desire to make a difference? Will you vote for those you are told to vote for, or, with a strong heart, will you vote in the interests of this country and its future?

DAVID WALLIS Medan, North Sumatra