Political elite

Political elite

While approaching the observance of Independence Day, it seems necessary for us to evaluate our political development and consciousness because they are the vital factors on which we have based our struggle prior to and after the proclamation of independence.

Although the circumstances during the above periods are different, the ethical and cultural principles which are attuned to our democratic system should be nurtured and preserved.

We are of the opinion that the political consciousness of the present generation is not what we expect it to be. Therefore, political awareness needs promoting.

We agree with former home affairs minister Rudini that our political culture is still colored by a feudal and traditional mentality, which is very much leader oriented. This is evident from the reality that whenever a socio-political organization wants to hold a congress, or national conference, the central issue is always who will lead the organization and not what the organization's program is. Such a phenomenon will only result in one group supporting a particular leader, and the other group favoring yet another leader. In other words the organization is bound to divide into opposing groups.

What we wish for the future is for the social and political elite to give greater meaning to the popular interests. Only if this is done will democracy be correctly implemented.

-- Suara Pembaruan, Jakarta