Security forces set up for mass rallies

JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Defense Mahfud MD claimed that the government had uncovered evidence that certain groups were planning to increase tension in the capital by conducting mass rallies, with the ultimate goal of destabilizing the government.

"The groups have held several meetings in Central Java," Mahfud claimed without identifying the parties involved.

He further alleged that the groups, who's members are mostly based in Jakarta, infiltrate non-governmental organizations as a means of provoking disorder.

"They will enter into human rights and democracy issues as a pretense for fulfilling a certain ideological goal," he remarked.

Mahfud also remarked than another group was intending to cause chaotic riots, similar to those experienced in May 1998.

Mahfud made his remarks during a press briefing, in anticipation of possible heightened political tension next week.

There have been reports that pro and anti-Abdurrahman Wahid supporters will descend on the capital on Monday.

"We should be very careful with these groups, and of course the government will be prepared for these people," Mahfud maintained.

Spokesman for the Coordinating Minister for Political, Social and Security Affairs Maj. Gen. I Wayan Karya said, after the coordinating ministerial meeting on Wednesday, that police and military personnel had been ordered to prepare ahead of Monday.

"Coordinating Minister for Political, Social and Security Affairs Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has ordered the police to 'sterilize' the Presidential Palace, the National Monument compound and the House of Representatives compound," I Wayan said.

Ma'mun Al Ayubi, the Jakarta chapter chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Ansor Youth Movement, said that he had instructed members in the capital not to be involved in any mass rallies.

"We will just remain silent and decline to join any march, as there is no order to make such a move from our leaders," Ma'mun said.

Ma'mun, who claimed to head at least 10,000 NU youth supporters in Jakarta, said that his office has yet to receive any formal notice about the impending mobilization from the Ansor headquarters.

"We also want to maintain safety and security in the capital," said Ma'mun after a meeting with Governor Sutiyoso at City Hall.

He noted that during the past holiday season and the coming Chinese New Year the group was cooperating with city police and officials to help ensure security and order.(02/07/dja)