Paying a call on Soeharto

Paying a call on Soeharto

From Merdeka

Probsutedjo, half brother of former president Soeharto, has
declared Soeharto is making a special effort to become a
"pundit". These are modern times, so anyone wishing to be a
"saintly" man must be declared. In Javanese culture it is common
for a person to retire into an ascetic life style when
approaching the end of his days, setting a good example for his
disciples.

Many social figures, with different motives, of course, have
dared to pay a courtesy call on Soeharto. Abdurrahman Wahid,
better known as Gus Dur, visited Soeharto. But Amien Rais,
chairman of the National Mandate Party, has no intention of
seeing Soeharto until the latter repents and returns his
allegedly ill-gotten wealth.

Nurcholis Madjid, another noted figure, has a different story
to tell. When he was summoned by Soeharto, he boldly replied:
"Sorry, I don't want to come for the time being."

Why should Soeharto indulge himself in summoning people? He
should instead become a good pundit, and not emulate Durno, the
fraudulent pundit from the puppet tale.

SOEHARTONO FA HIEN

Bandung, West Java