Money politics in MPR

Money politics in MPR

From Suara Karya

People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Speaker Amien Rais and his deputy Sutjipto are well aware of the rampant money politics ahead of the Assembly's special session on Aug. 1, 2001. Other legislators have also noticed these maneuvers. The payoff attempts have come from President Abdurrahman's supporters as well as his adversaries. Amien has warned all MPR members against taking bribes to serve certain political interests.

All those in the Assembly should have the conscience to act in the nation's interests and not be lured by money.

In my view, even money politics cannot prevent the special session because it is dictated in the Constitution for circumstances such as the present.

In the event of MPR's rejection of the President's accountability speech in the special session, Vice President Megawati Soekarnoputri will automatically assume the presidency. If that were the case, one can expect what the mass media has termed the "Mega Cabinet", which would include former coordinating minister for political, social and security affairs Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono as vice president. Susilo deserves the office of VP because he is neutral, democratic and fair.

Therefore, as indicated by Amein, the legislators should keep in mind the nation's interests during the special session and not disappoint the public.

SUGENG WIDODO

Jakarta