MPR's code of conduct

MPR's code of conduct

From Koran Tempo

The end of the 2004 session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) completed the duties of the members picked during the 1999 election.

It must be said that the members did manage to produce some far-reaching changes, including various amendments of the 1945 Constitution.

Another important outcome of the session was the MPR code of conduct -- a guide for Assembly members as regards their conduct and behavior -- something that is essential in order to maintain the dignity, esteem and image of the highest institution of state.

In setting the rules of the game for MPR personnel, this code should be consistently observed and penalties imposed on violators so that the work of this esteemed body will not be tarnished by absenteeism, abuse of power and other types of unacceptable behavior.

Let us hope that the application of new systems for the running of our public institutions will enable proper checks and balances to be applied between the different organs of state so as to reduce the opportunity for social maladies like corruption, collusion and nepotism to thrive.

YUDI ARIYANTO Jakarta