National responsibility

From Rakyat Merdeka

The present on-going crises in our country including the crisis of identity -- identity as a nation, as a human being, as part of human values -- are the responsibility of everyone in Indonesia. We are a nation that is really suffering. Every day we hear our neighbors cry for help. I do not think it right to say that the crisis is only President Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid's responsibility, or that of the House of Representatives. The question is that we all decided to establish this republic therefore the current crisis is for all of us to solve.

Is it right to say that those whose opinions differ to Gus Dur are Gus Dur's enemies? If this is right, we need to know who they are! Aren't they Indonesian people who also live in Indonesia, meaning that they are also Gus Dur's people whom he cares and protects?

On the other hand, Jihad and statements like "dare to die to defend Gus Dur" are fundamentally wrong. It is a stupid choice! Those who support this statement should remember that they should only fight for, or defend the interests of, the whole nation, not the interests of a particular group or party. Besides, whether Gus Dur is right or not, is for the Court of Justice to judge.

Gus Dur should be appropriately loved and supported by the entire population of Indonesia because he and his presidency is owned by the people. It is a pity that Gus Dur still remains a member of Nahdlatul Ulama whereas he should belong to the people of Indonesia.

RAHMAT SUKANTO

Jakarta