Longing for a change

Longing for a change

From Sinar

In anticipation of the 1998 general session of the People's Consultative Assembly, I tried to monitor the people's opinions. The result was quite interesting, most of the community aspired for a change in various sectors.

* The people (including civil servants, members of the Armed Forces, pensioners, blue-collar workers) hope that they can earn enough money to make ends meet, that prices are stable and that health care and education are within reach of the people.

* Every citizen wants the freedom of practicing their particular religion and there should be no question of majority and minority with regard to religion.

* The law must be upheld. The police, prosecutors, and judges should act objectively and only speak the truth.

* Conglomerates should have nationalistic concepts and not exploit the people for their own benefit.

* Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution should be genuinely and consequently implemented. Political maneuver to benefit only one particular ruling group should be avoided. The House of Representatives should truly represent the interest of the people. The Armed Forces should be neutral and stick to the interest of the whole nation, and have the courage to criticize whoever has done wrong disregarding position, rank and status.

SUHARSONO HADIKUSUMO

Jakarta