Reconciliation idea dubious

Reconciliation idea dubious

The Jakarta Post reported on Sept. 5 that the government and
the National Commission on Human Rights will establish a National
Reconciliation Team. Its aim is to preserve the country's unity.

Some people fear, however, that the team will only be used for
covering up painful truths existing in government and business
circles in the name of reconciliation.

A process of reconciliation involves two or more parties that
are having a serious conflict or confrontation; whereas, up till
now, there is no conflict between the government and the
commission, which itself was formed by the government.

The prerequisites of reconciliation are that the two
pertaining parties must fully realize their wrongdoings or
mistakes and eventually publicize them. This is followed by an
expression of remorse with an apology. Finally, genuine regret
should be judged by the preparedness of not only to accept full
responsibility but also to undergo pertinent (legal) punishment
and by stating a commitment that the wrongdoings will never be
repeated.

The firm basis for the establishment of a reconciliation team
is mutual trust and respect. This can only be achieved through a
solution of the underlying causes of the conflict where justice
prevails, unmarred by corruption, collusion and nepotism.

Without trust and respect, reconciliation is as dubious as it
is between corruptors, plunderers, arsonists, abductors, rapists
on the one hand and those victimized on the other.

MUHERMAN HARUN

Jakarta