Of demons and angels

As a former influential general with a political vision and mission, it is only natural that Prabowo should always become a subject for gossip. So great has been Prabowo's influence, that he is constantly being seen as being behind every disturbing incident that has happened since May.

Prabowo's name is, at present, as prominent and sinister as that of Benny Moerdani's was in the past. While, in the past, every important incident that could not be easily accounted for was attributed to Benny Moerdani, now, it is Prabowo Subianto who gets the blame. Those two have come to represent ogres whose acts are to blame for all our problems. Unfortunately, like Benny Moerdani, Prabowo has done little to openly explain his position and actions in order to repudiate those rumors.

In the future, our political make-up must be based on healthy rationality. We cannot forever regard certain people as demons. On the other hand, certain people among us must stop forever considering themselves angels. Prabowo and Benny must not be turned into names used to justify our ignorance and political prejudices.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta