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