Think more clearly

Think more clearly

From Media Indonesia

The demand made by the Acehnese people for a referendum seems
to be like a fixed price. Everywhere in Aceh young people,
particularly students, keep on voicing the "referendum" word. In
short, they are demanding that a referendum should be held
straight away. It now seems that this demand is not voiced by
those in Aceh alone, because it has spread to Jakarta, as was
shown on Nov. 25, 1999, by a peaceful parade to the legislative
building.

Briefly viewed, this situation looked so sweet that many
foreigners and political observers raised their hats to the
administration of President Abdurrahman Wahid, better known as
Gus Dur. They showed this optimism because the security
apparatuses, the military and the police, showed a healthy and
mature cooperation in dealing with the demonstrators. Obviously
there were no clashes and of course no bloodshed. So again, our
hats off to the military/police. However, the political elite
have instead shown an unsound attitude because they have been
fanning these demonstrations.

I'm sure the government will find the best solution for this
country. However, this does not mean bowing easily to the demand
made by the demonstrators. A high-ranking official in this
country was right when he said that no matter how complicated the
problem of Aceh was, everyone must adhere to the prevailing laws.

Therefore, all parties must be patient, think clearly, and
have the magnanimity to settle the problem comprehensively once
and for all and not to worsen the situation. All national
components, particularly influential politicians, should not
waste time for nothing. They must contribute healthy and dynamic
solutions for all of Indonesia, and especially for problem-
wracked regions. Everybody must race to practice virtues without
being coercive and overemotional.

KODRIN LAMUKA

Jakarta