Premature statements

The Indonesian people are now facing a very important event: the general election. This will affect the life of the entire nation.

We are all obliged to ensure that this democratic event will take place peacefully through law and order. Therefore it is important that everybody and every organization restrain itself and observe the rules we have agreed to abide by.

Too many unnecessary statements, that have been aired lately, will only create unrest as they will invite reactions from groups or people with different opinions. The rule of the game determines how and when to make statements, especially when it comes to nominating future leaders.

Certain groups have even prematurely announced their choice for the next president. Organizations should follow the example set by Golkar, who until now keeps quiet on the subject. Similarly, several names have prematurely and unnecessarily been mentioned about who will be the next vice president, which can also create trouble and controversy. People should restrain themselves and wait until the time comes for that matter.

Lately a political party expressed its opinion that the minister of education and culture and the minister of religious affairs should come from political parties. Again, I wonder why this should be so.

SOEGIH ARTO

Jakarta