Take firm action

Take firm action
against GAM

From Koran Tempo

For many years the Acehnese have been suffering because of
irresponsible acts by such secessionist groups as the Free Aceh
Movement (GAM). The armed conflict in Aceh has inflicted untold
suffering and claimed many lives on both sides -- the government
and the rebel groups. Negotiations have been held and agreements
reached but GAM has time and again violated them.

The latest peace deal between the Indonesian government and
GAM should have been signed last October or early this month but,
again, GAM has postponed it. The Acehnese really hope that this
latest round of negotiations will bring about lasting peace to
the region.

As it seems that GAM is always postponing the conclusion of a
peace agreement, the government must take tough action against
the group. Isn't it obvious that GAM is seeking to secede from
the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia?

I fully support the firm stance taken by Army chief Gen.
Ryamizard Ryacudu, who has said that if GAM refuses to surrender
the Indonesian Military will not hesitate to crush it. This
statement must not serve as only a bluff, but must be turned into
action. A separatist movement like GAM, however small, must not
be tolerated as it will pose a threat to the country's national
security and integrity.

PONOHADI

Bogor, West Java