Rash statements

Rash statements

From Sinar Pagi

The government and the Armed Forces (ABRI) must realize and be aware that their image, reputation and authority in the eyes of the people and students in general, are experiencing a crisis of confidence. This is a result of the wounds and suffering inherited from the New Order era, especially the sadism of ABRI, which said of itself to be "one with the people" but in fact had the heart to slaughter the people in a way more sadistic than Nazi Germany and the now defunct Indonesian Communist Party.

The Police, too, nearly resemble "wolves in sheep's clothing" with their illegal takings. The people's hatred often results in police stations being torched.

ABRI needs to regain the people's confidence, although it is not an easy task. But, at least, both the government and ABRI must regain the confidence in them by word and action. They should stop making rash statements, talking nonsense, etc.

The government and ABRI should remember that people, when they are hungry, their children have no milk and their future is gloomy, become desperate. They will not even fear jail. Therefore, the government should take steps against all manipulators, especially hoarders of the nine staple foodstuffs. If the government is up to this task, the crisis in confidence toward the government and ABRI will be overcome gradually.

H.W. CHANIAGO

Jakarta