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