Limits to freedom

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