Observers urge political pause for nation's sake
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)