The race among parties

The race among parties

The reform movement has been fighting for its life amid increasing uncertainties. To certain groups of students, the reform movement has been dead, thus they urge President Megawati Soekarnoputri and Vice President Hamzah Haz to resign for failing to maintain the spirit of reform.

However, amid the lack of reform spirit, a couple of parties have been able to buck the skepticism -- the United Development Party (PPP) and Golkar Party.

The two parties have opened themselves to the public for membership. PPP for instance, has invited those willing to be members of the legislative body representing the Islamic-based party.

Golkar, cornered by certain quarters, has claimed to be the most prepared for reforms by recruiting its presidential nominee through a convention.

Is it wrong for parties not to open themselves to outsiders to be nominated for president? Of course not, as it is an agreement that has to be appreciated.

However, both PPP and Golkar have shown the courage to change. One of the reasons why reform is fading away is that the elite group lack the courage to make sacrifices.

It is not enough for PPP and Golkar to race in inviting outsiders to presidential nomination, to prove that they are reformists.

Old and new parties are faced with the question on the willingness of their leaders to leave their positions in the party once they are elected as public officials.

If party leaders are daring enough to do that, they will do a good turn for this nation's life. -- Media Indonesia, Jakarta