Kamra members get severance pay

YOGYAKARTA (JP): Some 300 members of the People's Security (Kamra) of the Sleman regency enjoyed Rp 1 million each in severance pay on Friday, thanks to governor Sultan Hamengkubuwono X's prompt help.

The Kamra members, who arrived on motorcycles, stormed the gubernatorial office complex in Kepatihan, demanding that the governor help them get the severance pay as soon as possible.

"It is now Friday. If we don't get the money today, that means we will have to wait until January 2, 2001. We need the money for lebaran (Idul Fitri)," Rubiyanto, Kamra coordinator told the Sultan.

The Kamra members also asked the Sultan to help them get new jobs. "We have been informed that 17,000 Kamra members will be employed as civil servants. Therefore we want to confirm if it is true," Rubiyanto inquired.

"Frankly speaking, I am not well informed about that. But, one thing for sure is that the regional government of Yogyakarta itself has an ample number of civil servants. Therefore, I'm doubtful whether all Kamra members could be employed as civil servants," the Sultan said.

The Sultan, therefore, suggested that all former Kamra members think about working as security guards in private offices. "That will enable you to earn as much money (Rp 250,000 per month) as you get as Kamra members," the Sultan said.

The Sultan, whose affection for his people is renowned, received the Kamra members at the Bangsal Kepatihan Hall, and immediately called the Yogyakarta Police chief Brig. Gen. Logan Siagian by phone conveying the Kamra members' wishes.

The Kamra members dispersed peacefully after the Sultan assured them that they all could receive their due salaries at the Sleman Police Precinct as promised by the Police chief.

Tired of frequent protests by Kamra members, the government finally decided on Thursday to dissolve Kamra and provide each member with Rp 1 million, four times their monthly salary.

Kamra members nationwide have expressed frustration over their fate as their contract with the (then) Ministry of Defense and Security expires at the end of this year.

They have frequently demonstrated at the House of Representatives (DPR), demanding that the government provide them with employment or allow them to become members of the Police Force.

Established in 1998, Kamra members were recruited to help the military, including the police, maintain security throughout the country.

Kamra members were employed to serve for one year, with a maximum extension period of one year. Their period of service will end on Dec. 31, 2000. (swa)