Maj. Gen. Agus apologizes for military's past mistakes

MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi (JP): Wirabuana Military Commander Maj. Gen. Agus Wirahadikusumah apologized here on Wednesday for past human rights abuses by Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel.

"I would like to apologize for past military violence and I call on the people to stop condemning the military," he told a gathering of local community leaders.

"Give me a chance to restore our image and, if necessary, troops who are used to the practices of the past regime will have to be brainwashed," Agus, who's name has been in the media lately for his progressive thinking, said.

Known as one of the military's outstanding intellectuals, Agus said he was endeavoring to breed new Indonesian soldiers with a greater respect for human rights.

TNI's reputation has been at its nadir following a slew of discoveries and allegations of past human rights abuses.

Agus, 48, asserted that as a commander it was his duty to take responsibility for the actions of his subordinates.

"In the armed forces the one who should be held responsible for the actions of his soldiers is the commander. Therefore I am willing to apologize and admit the mistakes of the past for the sake of the nation," he said.

Agus has recently voiced several proposals which provoked a strong reaction from his colleagues.

Earlier this month he suggested the number of regional military commands be slashed.

TNI spokesman Maj. Gen. Sudrajat rebuffed this suggestion, saying the military was considering establishing six additional regional commands. TNI Commander Adm. Widodo also brushed aside the suggestion, saying Agus had spoken in his personal capacity.

Agus then became embroiled in a spat with the chief of the Army's Strategic Reserve Command, Lt. Gen. Djadja Suparman.

Djadja, a former Jakarta Military commander, warned the continuing humiliation of Army generals by accusing them of human rights abuses could spark the ire of their soldiers.

Agus replied by saying: "TNI soldiers do not serve their generals, but TNI as an institution and the state." (30/byg)