Students' initiative

According to reports the other day, a draft law to prevent economic domination was presented to the House of Representatives by the Gajah Mada University student senate. This may sound rather odd, since so far actions such as proposing draft laws has never been associated with students. During this New Order era the submitting of draft laws has always been done by the government (executive). Although the Constitution recognizes the right of initiative of factions in the legislature, this has never been done, for whatever reasons.

A few points might be noted in this case. First: among students, who are the most educated among our young, the commitment to face community issues still appears to prevail. Second: efforts are made that involve not only the airing of aspirations, but also constructive and constitutional political participation. Third: the action reminds us again of the importance of strengthening the institution and the function of our legislature, particularly regarding the use of the right of initiative.

The House of Representatives should not always remain passive and let the initiative for all draft legislation come from the executive branch of government. We should be more aware of the fact that many potentials exist in society, particularly on campuses, which can be persuaded to cooperate in stepping up the function of the legislature.

-- Surabaya Pos, Surabaya