Militaristic civilians?

Militaristic civilians?

From Media Indonesia

The increasing demand that the task forces of political parties and mass organizations, which often imitate military behavior and carry military insignias, be dissolved is welcome news. The demand should be followed up. It is a reflection of the reform spirit, implying an endeavor to increase law enforcement and increase civilian rights without suppressing intergroup interests by resorting to the well-worn approach of the New Order, i.e. violence.

The attitude of these task forces has lately been sharply criticized by a number of groups within the community. They are aghast that the forces have deviated from their basic function, which was to help safeguard the activities of political parties and mass organizations. Now they have become instruments of repression and coercion in fighting for the interests of their groups.

In line with the commitment by the military to gradually phase out its involvement on the political, social and civilian stages, the existence of civilian task forces is contrary to the current situation. Civilians must not be allowed to become the emotional heirs of the role the military served during the New Order regime, using violence to dominate everyday life. Political parties and mass organizations which claim to be pioneers of reform and which employ task forces should consider and reevaluate the function and need of these groups.

Another point of consideration is the abolishment of terms with military implications in the activities of political parties, mass organizations, the government and the private sector, including the use of the term posko (command post). A more communicative term should be coined for matters related to floods, the haj pilgrimage, committees, health services, etc. Public service should be provided in an atmosphere that emphasizes professionalism. It should not create an impression of reporting to a military agency.

ARIEF RIZALDI

Jakarta