Limits to freedom

I read the front page article 'Unrecognized new party gains more support' in The Jakarta Post of June 18, 1996.

I was surprised at the conclusion made by your newspaper, a paper usually cautious in giving its opinion. The Post said that the newly formed opposition Indonesian Democratic Union Party (PDUI) gained the support of a former general and two scholars at a seminar.

Former general Soemitro said at the seminar that "There is nothing illegal in forming a new political party because the 1945 Constitution guarantees the right to speech and assembly." He further said that it was up to the people to determine whether they need a new party or not. Soemitro called on the highest law making body to review the political laws.

What Soemitro said is similar to the statement made some time ago by Coordinating Minister of Political Affairs and Security Soesilo Soedarman. Soemitro said nothing about supporting the PDUI. As a mature democratic politician Soemitro stated something but actually said nothing, just like most politicians and diplomats.

A few months ago a new PNI and Masyumi were formed. The government acted according to law. It did not forbid the birth of new parties but it could not recognize the newcomers. And again, based on the existing law, the new parties cannot participate in the general elections. The members, like all Indonesian citizens, can vote.

At the same seminar, scholar Mochtar Buchori said something about redefining opposition. In my opinion there is nothing to redefine, because Pancasila democracy does not recognize opposition and the mentioned harassment was exaggerated.

Sri Bintang Pamungkas has said so many things that might cause the ears of the government to become red. He is still talking yet there is no harassment whatsoever from the government. If there is any, it may be from groups that do not agree with him.

Also Arief Budiman, known as a government critic, is still free to express his criticism and will continue to do so. President Soeharto said criticism is necessary, because it can create creativity, an element vital for development.

There is no such thing as unlimited freedom in a multifaceted society. Mutual understanding and tolerance should be the basis of our conduct.

SOEGIH ARTO

Jakarta