Ministers must not campaign

Ministers must not campaign

From Republika

President Habibie gave all but five of his ministers permission to campaign for their parties. But minister Adi Sasono said that he would not campaign simply because he holds a ministerial post. Minister A.M. Saefuddin said that all ministers, without exception, should be barred from taking part in campaign activities.

Many social leaders view the President's policy as unfair. The General Elections Committee also has barred ministers from campaigning.

In my opinion, it is certainly not fair for ministers to campaign. Logically, all ministers promised that he or she would not use government facilities for the election campaign. Furthermore, they promised not to campaign in their capacities as ministers. But will this be the case when they are out in the field?

We all know that most of the present ministers are from Golkar. It is quite logical they would use the same tactics to win this election as they did in the past. The people are still of the opinion that Golkar has not changed. I, for one, am concerned about the possibility Golkar will win the election again. If this happens, it would not be surprising if Golkar continues to be condemned by the people at large. Can't Golkar be a bit more serious in its efforts to improve its image in order not to create any loopholes for people's criticisms and condemnations, and instead win the people's sympathy?

MRS. S WALUYO

Bogor, West Java