Resolving Aceh problem

Resolving Aceh problem

The debate on military operations in Aceh has been weak recently. The government, previously firm in its move to launch a military operation in Aceh, is backing off.

In a limited Cabinet meeting on Monday, President Megawati Soekarnoputri decided to postpone the launch of a military operation. Instead, she opted for a humanitarian operation, law enforcement and moves to improve security.

Coordinating Minister for Political Affairs and Security Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono told the media that the government would view developments in the restive province very critically.

In the last two weeks, plans to resolve the conflict in Aceh (by the government) have been inconsistent. The government, irritated by Free Aceh Movement (GAM) maneuvers on the date of the peace talks, decided, at one point, not to proceed with talks. That meant that the military option would be pursued.

At present, the government is reopening the possibility of talks with GAM via the Henry Dunant Center (HDC), on condition that GAM bows to the terms of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement in Aceh (COHA) signed on Dec. 9, 2002.

Explicitly and formally, GAM must agree to accept special autonomy for Aceh as the basis on which to achieve peace in Aceh as part of the unitary state of Indonesia, Yudhoyono said.

Resolving conflict in Aceh is not easy: Many things must be taken into consideration before a decision can be made. Therefore, consistency is essential, as inconsistency would lead to more problems.

-- Republika, Jakarta