On scratching the IMF

On scratching the IMF

This is in response to Mr. Hubert Neiss's letter IMF is not
interfering in RI of June 22, 1999. As a mere writer, I feel
honored that a man of his caliber would spend his precious time
to comment on what I wrote.

The point of my article was aimed more at reminding our
leaders of the shameful conditions, rather than criticizing the
IMF. The term "shameful" may be aggravating to you, but it is
just a matter of style, to put smiles on my readers' faces. So,
please, relax. All I wanted to say was if this country was run
properly in the first place, we wouldn't have to turn to the IMF
every time we take a breath.

Neiss was absolutely right when he said that "a friend in
need" should agree on terms proposed by the lending party. But
come on, think of how that friend will feel if you keep pestering
him in a belittling attitude?

I still can't forget the scene where Mr. Michel Camdessus
stood with arms folded, while in front of him an old man bowed to
sign papers agreeing to terms stipulated by the Indonesian
government and the IMF. Where I come from, this standing style
shows superiority and arrogance. Why couldn't he just stand
casually? For your information, Mr. Neiss, that old man in front
of Camdessus was our president, the number one leader of this
country.

It is undeniable that the 10 billion dollar loan received from
the IMF has helped Indonesia regain it's composure, although, at
the same time, adding to the already enormous debt. But it
certainly does not make me happy, as it is not a free gift. Our
children, grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren who do not
know anything about it will have to pay back the formidable
amount, plus interest. And to think that part of the money goes
back to the lending countries, at an unbelievable rate, through
the extraordinarily high paid consultants the government has to
hire again, as part of IMF's requirements. This, too, is a burden
of the future generation.

If you were in my shoes, Mr. Neiss, you would feel the same.
And I will never relax (as you suggested) unless the IMF comes up
with the news that the enormous debt is written off. Meanwhile,
I'll keep scratching the part that is itchy, not the part IMF
recommends. Capisce?

CARL CHAIRUL

Jakarta