Referendum in East Timor

It is sad to see that tens of thousands of innocent people have become victims of brutality, unclear policy and political orchestration in East Timor due to the government's lack of seriousness to end the problems there.

It is very confusing to see many people still saying East Timor is an integral part of Indonesia, while many others oppose this idea. But how can we, the people of Indonesia, be expected to believe that East Timor integrated into Indonesia with the full support of its people and without any force being used against it when we know the integration took place during Soeharto's rule, which was marked by lies, manipulations and abuse of power.

I am of the opinion that Mr. Xanana Gusmao, who was said to be guilty of violating the law, should be immediately released without any conditions in order to give him the chance to be directly involved in seeking a solution to the problems there.

I am also of the opinion that the lack of seriousness by the government of Indonesia will only bring about more violence, bloodshed and civilian casualties. It is high time a referendum under the direct supervision of the United Nations be held to prevent Indonesia's image from suffering more damage, making Indonesia the laughing stock of countries all over the world for its greed, its bad record of human rights and its unpopular policies.

JONGKY SURJOPRANOTO

Jakarta