Muslim faction not exclusive

From Rakyat Merdeka

Interesting political developments have taken place in this country. Hamzah Haz of the United Development Party (PPP), in cooperation with eight small Muslim parties, launched the idea of forming a Muslim faction in the House of Representatives (DPR) in the context of building an "axis force". The National Mandate Party (PAN) decided to join but they changed the name to the reform faction. It is not meant to be exclusive. Amien Rais said the axis force had proposed Abdurrahman Wahid, better known as Gus Dur, to be the alternative president.

"This is Amien's proposal, and I am not involved in that matter. I had stated my support for Megawati Soekarnoputri. I reiterate it here. The people's voice is God's voice," Gus Dur said at the Senayan main stadium on July 25.

The Golkar faction continues to propose B.J. Habibie as its presidential candidate. It has set up a team headed by Akbar Tandjung for that purpose. The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan), supported by the National Awakening Party (PKB) and the Justice and Unity Party (PKP), proposed from the start that Megawati Soekarnoputri is their presidential candidate.

If such is the case, it is predicted that there will be an attractive fight at the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR). May it take place in a smooth and clean way guided by a sportsmanlike spirit without money politics. Thus, whoever is the winner, we all will accept with equanimity because politicians will have fought as national noblemen and heroes. They continue the ideals of the founders of this republic because they have given up self- interests. May God shield this nation from a rift.

SOEHARTONO FA HIEN

Ujungberung, West Java