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