Maluku govt asked to be transparent

AMBON, Maluku: The Catholic and Protestant churches in the province called on the provincial administration to be transparent in giving information on violent incidents in the strife-torn province.

Father B. Rahawarin, representing the Amboina Diocese and Rev. D. Mailoa, representing Protestant churches in the province, said the provincial government should be transparent in reporting the violent clashes that have claimed thousands of lives since the sectarian conflict erupted in January 1999.

"The government must also report on the massive killings and violent riots, especially those that occurred in the last two weeks, which were committed by terrorist groups who aim to threaten security in the province," said Rahawarin.

Mailoa said the military should take concrete steps to stop the continued conflict that would certainly worsen the situation of the local people.

"Security authorities must take action against all persons who incite disturbance, especially during the fasting month and in the period before Christmas," he said. --Antara