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