Military and civilians

Military and civilians

Over the past week, I've read with surprise and dismay the
many reactions to Dr. Juwono Sudarsono's opinion on this
country's coming leadership choice.

As I see it, what Juwono did was state his view on the
situation. In this case, the qualities of Indonesians of
different backgrounds, military and civilian, and their
eligibility to lead this nation.

This view was based on his broad experiences and knowledge,
being an expert on sociopolitical affairs. And very likely on his
recent findings acquired in his job as vice director of the
National Resilience Institute, where classes comprising
prospective military and civilian leaders are undergoing year-
long training, rife with seminars, discussions and field trips.

Very much like the weather bureau that predicts a long drought
based on observations of meteorological data, it would be absurd
and ridiculous if farmers then accused it of being in favor of
dry weather because of its forecast.

Indeed, our people, including the so-called social experts,
still have much to learn.

R. SUNARYO

Jakarta