Observers urge political pause for nation's sake

JAKARTA (JP): Observers urged politicians on Tuesday to establish a truce to allow the government to concentrate on settling the nation's problems, particularly those related to economic recovery.

Speaking at a seminar hosted by the National Awakening Party (PKB), political scientists J. Kristiadi and Arbi Sanit were of the opinion that continued political bickering would only harm the people.

"I suggest a political pause (because) people can no longer stand the current economic situation. They need more jobs and food," Kristiadi, from the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, said.

He hoped the upcoming General Session of the People's Consultative Assembly would not turn into a battle between the political elite, fearing this could lead to social revolution.

"The economic recovery needs more time, and people will lose their patience if conflict prevails at the Assembly session," he said.

Arbi, from the University of Indonesia, regretted that the country's politicians were concerned only with obtaining power, instead of looking after the interests of the people.

"How can the President concentrate on economic matters if he spends much of his time countering attacks from 'irresponsible' politicians from the House of Representatives," he asked.

He called on the country's four top political leaders -- President Abdurrahman Wahid, Vice President Megawati Soekarnoputri, House Speaker Akbar Tandjung and People's Consultative Assembly Speaker Amien Rais -- to get together and share ideas on how to resolve the nation's delicate problems.

He also suggested students focus their street rallies on demanding these four politicians unite, rather than calling for a trial for former president Soeharto.

"We should hold more rallies to urge the politicians to show their commitment to the nation's interests. Forget Soeharto if necessary," Arbi said.

He criticized legislators for overacting, as evidenced by how they exercised their legislative rights. They are not aware that the country has a presidential, not a parliamentary system, according to Arbi.

Kristiadi suggested the need for a watchdog to prevent the legislative body from manipulating its power in the name of people.

"The people's sovereignty is too important to be handed over to the House or the Assembly. People should be given the freedom to express their aspirations," he said.

Noted economist Sjahrir earlier proposed "a political moratorium", calling on politicians to end their arguing to give the nation a chance to revive its battered economy. (jun)