Megawati versus the press

Megawati versus the press

President Megawati Soekarnoputri has accused the print and
electronic media of making unbalanced reports, especially on the
recent demonstrations against the government decision to increase
fuel and gas prices as well as electricity and telephone rates.

Megawati's emotional reaction reflected that the protests
against her government were exaggerated.

Megawati has forgotten that a president is a public figure who
must be ready to face public responses to her government
policies, even if they are unpopular.

As chief executive officer of the Mutual Cooperation cabinet,
President Megawati should not become emotional in responding to
public protests. Openness, freedom of expression and constructive
criticisms are concepts which should be maintained to achieve
good governance.

The head of state should spearhead the move to instill in the
society values which in the long run could build the nation's
character.

Now the question is whether or not President Megawati is
capable of empowering the state minister for communication and
information to enable him inform the public of all government
programs and policies to achieve good governance.

Meanwhile, the Indonesian press should continue promoting
openness to express constructive criticisms on the bad attitudes
of government officials.

-- Bisnis Indonesia, Jakarta