Surviving censure

Surviving censure

Even to his dwindling band of supporters, Indonesian President Abdurrahman Wahid must appear the architect of his own misfortune. If he had done what was expected when he took office, he might have been watching his accusers facing corruption charges of far greater magnitude than the US$6 million scandal in which he has been implicated.

But Mr. Wahid is a wily political strategist with three long months to respond to the memorandum issued following Thursday's parliamentary censure motion. In keeping with his self-confident -- some say arrogant -- style, he has refused to resign. Having denied the allegations, calling the committee illegal, he may seek redemption by turning the spotlight on opponents with long- overdue investigations into their nefarious activities.

Two things remain to sustain him: what he represents as leader of pro-democracy reformists during the Suharto era plus desire throughout Indonesia to avoid further chaos. Thus far, the constitutional process has been followed. But Mr. Wahid's erratic leadership, frequent trips abroad and failure to justify the hope that brought him to power leaves him seriously weakened. If he survives the crisis, he will have to unite the country by building a working relationship with the legislature. Above all, he must convince a disenchanted public he can make good on his pledges.

-- The South China Morning Post, Hong Kong