Stick to people's interests!

I agree with Olvia Reksodipoetro's letter concerning Amien Rais, Back to politician (The Jakarta Post, Jan. 12, 2000).

I am also one of the many citizens who voted for his party in last June's general elections. Unfortunately, I have to believe that he no longer represents the people, and that he should therefore resign the position as Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR).

In what capacity did he call for a jihad, as MPR Speaker or as Chairman of the National Mandate Party (PAN)? Even as a Muslim I am not sure of the real meaning of jihad, let alone what lay outsiders must think. Amien Rais' statement is quite contrary to his present position.

If he really wishes to contribute to the nation and state, he'd better concentrate on the problems of corruption and how to solve them. There are still numerous unsolved issues that need to be addressed.

Don't try to fool the people in order to serve personal interests. The people are well aware of what is happening. And as a concerned citizen, I have the right to criticize and correct actions which disregard the people's interests. This does not necessarily mean, however, that I agree with President Abdurrahman Wahid in all his efforts to solve the country's problems.

Forget all personal or group interests and let us all make a sincere effort to find the best solution for the problems the nation is now facing. We should prove that the reform order is better than the New Order.

In this context I would like to call on the nation's leaders to be wise and mature in handling all challenges. The people have entrusted their plight to your hands.

TITA MUSTIKAHATI

Jakarta