Politicians must retrospect

Politicians must retrospect

From Forum Keadilan

The Spirit of Revolution's Flame, a history book, gives a really clear description of the character traits of our national politicians at the inception stage of our independence. Regardless of their ideological or religious persuasion, they fought hard in the public's interest and stayed away from sectarianism because they were after national unity.

Agus Salim, Moh. Roem, Kasman Singodimedjo and Ki Bagus Hadikusumo -- all from religious circles -- could get on well with Mohammad Hatta, Soepomo, Sjahrir, Sukarni, Adam Malik and others from the secular group.

Today our political figures are from the religious and secular camps. Unfortunately, their nationalism has come under question as they prioritize the interests of their group.

They have teamed up not for the good of the nation, but to cover up their crime. Megawati Soekarnoputri, the daughter of Sukarno, was not nationalistic enough when her party colluded with Golkar to cover up Akbar's crime in Buloggate II. Likewise, Akbar and his Golkar Party will do anything to cover up the bad side of Megawati's camp.

Our politicians must use the politicians at the inception stage of our independence as their models.

MUKMIN ABDULLAH

Radio Dalam

South Jakarta