Shadow Cabinet?

Shadow Cabinet?

There seems to be no better example than the present
administration under the newly elected president Susilo Bambang
Yudhoyono -- at least outwardly -- to jump into immediate action
when a crisis arises, responding almost as though it were a
public relations exercise.

To make sure that trains were running well before the Idul
Fitri holiday, President Susilo went personally to Gambir railway
station, while his ministers visited supermarkets and inspected
factories.

Meeting world leaders in Chile for the Asia-Pacific Economic
Cooperation (APEC) summit should be more seen as the government's
concern for the well-being of Indonesia's global role in
contributing to world trade and easing unemployment pressure at
home. The government appears to be standing by -- at all times --
at the service of the people.

However, under a genuine democracy, the government, as the
executive branch of power, cannot play alone. It needs to be
controlled by the legislative branch, the media, and the public.
It is unfortunate that the present House of Representatives is
still shaky and within its ranks shady political deals are not
ruled out, while, ideally, the country needs a frank, strong and
honest opposition, and not weak legislators.

Most members of the House are seen to represent their own
interests, instead of working for the people's interests.

For fear of the emergence of such a "tame" legislative body,
it is no wonder that some politicians are suggesting, if not
already preparing, the formation of a shadow cabinet while they
should also contemplate perhaps the formation of a "shadow
legislative body", which would be more costly and burdensome to
implement.

According to leader of the Indonesian Unity Party (PSI),
Rahardjo Tjakradiningrat, this is the best way to control the
executive power. The aim is not to bring down the government
under Susilo, but rather to balance and correct its policies and
programs.

GANDHI SUKARDI, Jakarta