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