New Order and reform era

New Order and reform era

From Bisnis Indonesia

The reform drive has been going on for four years. Four years has also elapsed since former president Soeharto declared his resignation from office. At the time, the name of Soeharto was heavily criticized but now it has started to be nostalgically remembered again and even praised.

Ordinary people unfamiliar with politics, the legislature and the government who are ignorant of human rights, have now lamented that under Soeharto life was better as they could afford to buy daily necessities and get a job to feed the whole family.

But, in this era of reform, life has gone in the opposite direction. The cost of living is getting higher. Many people are unemployed. Crime is widespread and human lives have become worthless. The gap between the rich and the poor is getting ever wider.

The government under the leadership of President Megawati and Vice President Hamzah Haz should be aware of the plight of the public. They should give evidence, not high-sounding promises. The eradication of corruption, collusion and nepotism should not be mere rhetoric.

TAUFIK KARMADI

Jakarta