Statement by Mitra Perempuan

Statement by Mitra Perempuan

From Media Indonesia

Observing current developments in the political situation, we,
Indonesian women of Mitra Perempuan, hereby state our deep
concern and anxiety.

In this reform era where democratic life is our common
objective, the situation seems to have deviated to an alarming
degree. The Special Session of the People's Consultative Assembly
that was expected to realize the dreams of the Indonesian people
is showing signs of the opposite.

The Armed Forces is facing a war, fully arming itself with
electrified barbed wire fences. This seems to have been done
intentionally to face the civilian community, including its
youths. The barricades which should protect all sides, represent
a very menacing repressive attitude and give rise to fear to all
people, including the women who have given birth to children who
are now facing these barricades.

We, therefore, state our protest against all forms of that
repressive attitude. Without taking anybody's side, we appeal for
the unjust measures and all forms of violence be stopped
immediately. We would further request that the authorities allow
women to channel food to members of our nation's younger
generation.

This statement has been inspired by humanitarian feelings
which constitute one of the principles of Pancasila and respect
for human rights.

RITA SERENA KOLIBONSO

Executive Director

Mitra Perempuan

Jakarta