Political reform

Political reform

From Media Indonesia

Referring to Media Indonesia of July 3, 1996 issue concerning the statement of Prof. Dr. Nazaruddin Syamsudin that those who are in favor of political change are generally educated people in the urban areas, while the rural population is still preoccupied with survival.

It is true that the educated serve as a model. They should sing in the same choir and work as a think-tank for political reform for the benefit of all.

The crucial question is: Why have the people in the countryside always been struggling for survival? Does this not indicate that economic development is not equitable?

It should also be noted that nowadays many women are potential income earners.

What is the position of women in Indonesia? Who is responsible for their plight? They are still the victims of feudalistic attitudes here. And men still traditionally dominate the political arena. A change can be made by a small elite. It is good that former Home Minister Rudini spoke about the fate and position of women. He knows what should be done about it.

R.A. BERAR FATHIA

Bekasi, West Java