Politicians' seek TNI favors

Politicians' seek TNI favors

YOGYAKARTA: Many politicians still try to seek the favors of the Indonesian Military (TNI) despite the TNI's determination to totally abandon its socio-political role, Central Java Military Commander Maj. Gen. Sumarsono said in Yogyakarta on Saturday.

"The reforms do not only deal with changes in structures, but also changes in culture in line with the new paradigm. Unfortunately, the cultural change will need a long time to bring about," Sumarsono said, as quoted by Antara.

The efforts to influence the TNI could be seen from the many party functionaries who frequently sought the advice of TNI officers before holding their events, including the election of their party chairmen, he said.

In the era of transition, the TNI was still considered as being the only institution which was capable of settling problems in society, he said.

"I myself in my capacity as the commander of the Central Java Military Command have been frequently consulted by party leaders or the heads of other organizations. What I can say is that there is no need to consult me any longer, Sumarsono said, adding that it was time to change the nation's culture into one of egalitarianism and democracy. -- Antara