Politician, scholars advocate public debates

Politician, scholars advocate public debates

JAKARTA (JP): A politician and scholars proposed yesterday
that Indonesians develop the habit of resolving state problems
through public debate.

They said that public debates would minimize suspicions that
could arise between members of society.

House member Aisyah Amini said open debate would give voice
to the people's wishes, but suggested that the debates be
tailored to a particular forum.

"Everything having to do with this country must include not
only the government's views but also the people's," Aisyah,
chairwoman of the House Commission I for security, told Antara.

She said sensitive issues could be discussed in limited
gatherings to prevent negative reactions on a wider scale.

Political observer Arbi Sanit and communications expert
professor Budyatna, both from the University of Indonesia (UI),
underlined the need for open debates, which have long played a
part in the country's political history.

Arbi pointed to the tradition around the country. "Look at the
endless discussions held in village food stalls," he said.

Budyatna defined open debate as a means for the public to
discuss the problems affecting them and to seek solutions.

"But we must be mindful of Eastern customs affecting
Indonesia, he said. "Not all problems can be raised in debate."

Arbi Sanit disagreed, saying that all problems should be
heard. "Our society would then mature, develop sharper
observations and become empowered rather than become encumbered
with a political elite holding more power... while the people
become more stupid and fearful of them."

Arbi added that because Indonesians are perceived as
introverted, suspicion is often created between the people and
the government, and thus debating issues in the open would help
remove that fear.

Budyatna and Arbi praised the government's new rule on
campaigning. The rule bans street rallies and requires all three
contestants to hold indoor debates to avoid physical clashes
between supporters.

Budyatna, the dean of UI's social and political sciences
department, said that "dialog campaigns" would encourage
political parties to appear in public for debates.

However, he said, the debates must have rules to ensure a
level playing field for all those involved in the election
process.

The public at large must be involved so they will be able to
assess problems, Arbi said. (01)