Repent now, Soeharto

Repent now, Soeharto

I agree with Amien Rais' statement that former president
Soeharto should ask for forgiveness from the Indonesian people
for all he did during his 32-year tenure. In this way,
politically, Soeharto would not have to face trial.

However, asking for forgiveness will not be enough. This
should be followed by the willingness to submit, at least 50
percent, of his wealth as well as his families' riches that were
acquired through corruption, collusion and nepotism (KKN) to the
state, in this case the House of Representatives and the People's
Consultative Assembly.

I think that would be the best thing for Soeharto to do if he
wants to retain the people's respect. It is no use to be stubborn
and ultimately face trial. My conviction is that, sooner or
later, Soeharto will be found guilty and punished by the court.
So will his children and cronies.

Then the state will confiscate his wealth, leaving Soeharto
with the status of an ordinary criminal. There are some examples
of similar cases; the late Philippine president Marcos and his
family, former Korean presidents and the perished Rumanian
dictator Nicolae Ceausescu.

After all, Soeharto did some deeds for the nation. We should
appreciate them. And the nation will be turning a new leaf after
this year's election, which will produce a new president and new
government free from any form of KKN.

SUHARSONO HADIKUSUMO

Jakarta