TNI and Congress

The vast majority of people talk of what the Indonesian Military (TNI) have likely done in a number of places like Papua, Aceh, East Timor, Poso, the Maluku islands, Kalimantan, Binjai and other, not so high-profile areas, but nothing is ever said of the military that would in any way justify financial support from the U.S. Congress.

The track record of accusations is almost endless, most of which revolve around human rights violations, with smuggling, drugs and other illegal business practices thrown in to complete a pretty awful picture. Image is all-important, no matter whom you are.

I cannot remember any positive news as regards the military promoting democracy in a manner that is clear to see, sincere in nature and sustainable. The comments made by Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono that the decision taken by Congress to withhold military aid was "dramatic" and would damage bilateral relations is a bit puzzling, especially when you bear in mind the many pointing fingers.

If we look at the British-made Scorpion tanks currently in Aceh and other foreign-made weapons being used against Indonesian nationals, then again there is reason for caution. Loopholes can often be found in words as written into contracts, and military tribunals can always be manipulated from within, but "blood money" (for that is what it could be) needs to be withheld if any doubts exist, whatsoever.

There is another case to consider as regards TNI and the loss of seats previously held in the corridors of power with regard to a stranglehold on all regions of Indonesia at village and regional level. The question is: Who holds the real power and how will it be used?

Just as Iraqis look forward to the day when the Americans leave their land, so ordinary Indonesians relish the thought of TNI leaving their region. I just wonder who will be first to understand the reasons why and pack their bags accordingly.

DAVID WALLIS, Gravesend, England