Stop damning TNI, minister Mahfud appeals

JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Defense Mahfud MD has appealed to the public to stop condemning the Indonesian Military (TNI) which marks its 55th anniversary on Thursday.

Mahfud told a media conference that the endless condemnation of TNI could provoke strong reactions from within the military with "undesirable consequences."

He said many organizations were still calling for an end to the military's "dual function" in defense and politics although the TNI has already shed its political role.

"TNI has made mistakes in the past, but they could not be blamed solely on TNI, the nation must also share the blame," he said.

Mahfud said TNI would be consistent in implementing its internal reforms. (02)