PDI Perjuangan set for street battles: Official

Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

Sending the country back to mob democracy, the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) has threatened to mobilize thousands of supporters to outnumber those demonstrating against President Megawati Soekarnoputri's administration.

PDI-Perjuangan deputy chairman Roy B.B. Janis said the two weeks of street rallies against fuel, electricity and telephone cost increases were intended to topple the President.

"The party has more than 40 million supporters, so we can outnumber those protesting against the President," he said after the party's weekly meeting presided over by party chairwoman Megawati on Tuesday.

Almost three years ago supporters of incumbent president Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid took to streets to protest political moves to unseat him. In some areas they and were involved in clashes with security personnel.

The meeting focused on measures to anticipate developments that may jeopardize Megawati's position.

"We appreciate the rallies that truly voiced the people's aspirations, but those who have a certain political agenda should reconsider their move."

Without solid evidence, Roy has accused National Mandate Party (PAN) lawmaker and former minister of finance Fuad Bawazier of being involved in the antigovernment rallies.

Megawati is facing her stiffest challenge since taking office in July 2001.

On Monday she bowed to pressure and cut the size of the price increases. However, the anti-government demonstrations have continued.

No less than Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono have said the protests were a conspiracy to topple Megawati.

National Police have arrested dozens of protesters.

Analysts have warned that the government moves were reminiscent of the authoritarian rule of president Soeharto and would only confirm Megawati's dictatorship.

"We called on the police to take stern action against those involved in rallies that threaten the continuation of the government," Roy said.

He said he sensed systematic efforts to demoralize the party and to create an image of PDI-Perjuangan being the common enemy.

In several regions, party headquarters and flags have become the targets of public's anger over Megawati's decision on the fares hike.

"Many of our branches have suffered from the people's anger and they have been urging us to strike back. We do not want to do that, although we believe we are able to match the number of the protesters," Roy said.

To support the party's position, Megawati, in her capacity as chairwoman, instructed the party's members to maintain peace and order across the country.

"Avoid any provocation or disinformation that could tarnish the image of the country's leadership," says the instruction, signed by Megawati, made available on Tuesday.

She also ordered members to be aware of any developments in the wake of the changing political constellation.