The lesser of two evils?

The lesser of two evils?

The use of words in the ongoing discussions between the Free
Aceh Movement (GAM) and the Indonesian government is exactly
that.

Everybody knows that trust is non-existent between the
Acehnese and Jakarta -- and with good reason. That said, the
problem still exists that self-government will not guarantee
democracy or an openness that will take on board the wishes of
ordinary people.

The local Aceh administration from top to bottom has
historically looked after itself, and in doing so has neglected
their own people. The same can be said of other regions where
entire councils are accused of corruption. So in reality, are the
local legislators better or worse than those that reside in
Jakarta?

Better, I suppose, in as much that more wealth will stay in
the regions, but that does not mean it will go to the poor.
Surely what we see today through the actions of the previous Aceh
governor and his administration is that the greed is exactly the
same, but of course autonomy brings it in-house and within the
grasp of the local elite.

Even the tsunami has hugely benefited the rich Acehnese while
the poor remain in tents. So are we really looking at the lesser
of two evils where neither camp is at all interested in creating
a more equal society that puts justice at the top of its agenda?

Those that represent GAM should consider whether everything
they accuse Jakarta of is not the same or similar to what they
would do if they were in the corridors of power. Nobody in Aceh
has set an example of good leadership, so why should the people
put their faith in any particular group?

Is it not a case of everyone, no matter their level, being
only interested in what they can get out of the situation for
themselves? In other words take what you can and give nothing. As
the fingers point to the G-8 countries, take a hard look at what
goes on within your own shores and tell me that Indonesia, or the
Acehnese for that matter, are any different from those they
accuse?

DAVID WALLIS, Medan, North Sumatra