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