Referendum in East Timor

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