Pushing the reform agenda

President Habibie has on a number of occasions warned us that reform could descend into anarchy if due processes and schedules were ignored. Like in the building of skyscrapers, work has to be done in set successive stages, though possibly each at a different pace. The public, however, does not appear to be too much inclined to follow theoretical concepts. What matters to them is that results are secured, fast and complete.

In the past seven months, it seems that the phases of our reform process so far have been completed at no small cost. We had to experience such a terrible disaster just to hold the Special Session of the People's Consultative People's Assembly (MPR). And the general election and general session of the MPR still lie ahead.

In this situation, the best thing that can be done is indeed to shorten the time span separating the general election from the general session of the MPR. The public must not be made to suffer under escalating conflicts and protracted tensions. For making such a decision, Habibie deserves to be commended.

Naturally we hope that after the general election and the MPR session are over, peace and order will return to this nation. No matter who is elected president, the decision must be respected. Only with this kind of conduct can we hope to restore our tattered dignity.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta