The rights and responsibility
Campaign time is over and the general election has passed. The political configuration of Indonesia is clear. Members of the House of Representatives (DPR) have been appointed and have undergone a crash course program to familiarize them with the task ahead.
According to my logic, we should have now a time of peace and tranquility in preparation for the next important session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) to elect the President and Vice President and to formulate the mandate for the next leadership in the form of Broad Outlines of State Policy (GBHN). But contrary to my expectations, we still have troubles.
Mass destruction of property by uncontrolled mobs has happened in several towns, causing loss of human life and property damage. Whether the violent action is spontaneous or there is someone or some organization behind it, I do not know.
Student brawls that claim lives still occur. Angry people attacked and damaged police posts. Again, I honestly have no knowledge of what is behind all these incidents.
Increase in crime in the form of murders, bank robberies, rape, corruption and collusion is continuously making news. Added to that is the rupiah depreciation which may disrupt the smooth flow of the economy. Is there someone or some organization behind all these just to discredit the government? How do I know?
Forest fires in Kalimantan and on several mountains in Java are another national catastrophe. Fires in towns that raze houses in slum areas happen almost every day. What is behind all these phenomena? Does anybody know? I don't.
On the political scene, there is the fanning of controversial issues in order to invite reactions and create an atmosphere for polemics. Is this necessary?
We live in a democratic society so freedom of expression should be developed, but this freedom should be a tool for the creation of creativity, which is needed in the national development.
Indonesian citizens have the right to express their opinion, and the right to have a different opinion. However, these rights should be combined with a sense of responsibility.
It is very unfortunate psychologically that people who criticize the government are usually considered to be heroes, and people who support the government are branded yes-men. My appeal is that one should restrain oneself and think before saying something, especially if he or she occupies a high social status or government position.
Let us maintain peace and order, and when aspiring to fight a legitimate political battle, we should observe the why, when, where and how to do it.
SOEGIH ARTO
Jakarta