Neutrality of ABRI and civil servants

Neutrality of ABRI and civil servants

From Merdeka

I refer to Syarif Harahap's view in Merdeka of Jan.7 that the Armed Forces (ABRI) is still needed in the House of Representatives (DPR) for safeguarding unity and cohesion.

In my opinion -- I hope it is acceptable to all -- ABRI cannot be included, neither in the DPR nor in the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR). ABRI should remain ABRI to safeguard and protect the nation and country in case of external attack. However, I agree with ABRI's presence in the DPR and the MPR if they abandon their attributes.

Likewise with civil servants. They should not be allowed to involve themselves as board of management members of political parties except if they relinquish their status as civil servants. Otherwise it would have an impact on the reinforcement of interests to foster a group's strength. The same applies to ABRI members at the DPR/MPR if they do not give up their ABRI membership.

I think ABRI as well as civil servants should be above all groups and not take sides in the general election in order that this will take place in an honest and just way in keeping with the people's sovereignty.

SUNARTO SUTIAWAN

Jakarta