Right to vote

Right to vote

From Koran Tempo

The issue of whether military and police personnel have the
right to vote during the elections should be tackled wisely. The
military and the police themselves are still seeking the best way
to act as defenders of the nation according to the People's
Consultative Assembly Decree No. VII/MPR/2000.

In addition, we have to be aware that our nation is in a
transition toward a more democratic and modern Indonesia.
Democracy is no respecter of persons, be they young, old, rich or
poor, elite groups or otherwise. Therefore we should not draw a
line between civilians and non-civilians. To satisfy everyone, we
must draw up fair and clear regulations.

We should not be concerned if the military and police play a
very strategic role in Indonesia's election or political arena
because we know that they have only about 500,000 votes
altogether. It is irrational to be afraid of this insignificant
number.

Military and police personnel as individuals and citizens of
Indonesia deserve to be able to exercise their political rights,
but must also abide by clear additional rules in its
implementation : For example, a soldier must not wear his uniform
during an election and must mix with civilians, as an indication
that they are not in favor of a certain political party.

Institutionally, all military and police personnel must be
neutral in their attitude toward all political powers in the
country. To make the voting purely an individual right, their
leaders must never use the line of command to influence their
subordinates. Retired soldiers are civilians who have the right
to vote and to be elected and the same obligations as other
civilians.

We know that no police nor military personnel will sit as
members of the House in 2004, therefore they deserve to get their
right to vote back. Let's all be fair!

KAHARJO

Jakarta