No need to let East Timor go

No need to let East Timor go

From Republika

I love my beautiful country, so allow me to express my ideas about the settlement of the East Timor question.

First, many Indonesian and foreign experts have stated that holding a referendum is the most democratic way to settle the East Timor question. This opinion may be correct from the point of view of democracy. However, a referendum may also be seen as forcing one's will on other people or depriving people of their rights. Besides, not only is a referendum unfair and highly authoritarian, but it also constitutes "a time bomb" of sorts.

There are several reasons. If a referendum is implemented and the outcome is 51 percent in favor of independence and the remaining 49 percent against it, the latter will be "forced" to comply with the result. The same is true if the result is the reverse.

This means that 49 percent of the votes -- either for or against -- will be ignored. Whether they like it or not, this group will have to comply with the wish of "the majority".

As a matter fact, a referendum is a crucial matter in that it has to do with the most basic and most essential human rights. In this respect, it may be likened with professing a religion. Certainly, under no circumstances can we accept a religious conversion by force, not even under the name of democracy. We will, of course, cling to our religion to the best of our ability and will even be ready to sacrifice our lives in this respect.

Therefore, I believe the granting of the widest autonomy will be the best formula to solve the East Timor question. This wide- ranging autonomy will enable that all social groups -- either for or against East Timor's independence -- will be accommodated. Obviously, this solution will not be 100 percent satisfactory to everybody, but at least it can avoid violence and prevent people from being forced to accept other people's wishes. In this way rioting may also be averted. So, why should we separate?

WAHYU DONOR AKBARSYAH

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