TNI's dual function still OK?

TNI's dual function still OK?

From Rakyat Merdeka

The results of a survey conducted by the Inter-University
Center (PAU) of the School of Social Studies of Gajah Mada
University and Indonesian Military (TNI) Headquarters in 15
regencies/municipalities spread over 13 provinces and involving
5,691 respondents turned out to be different from the viewpoint
propagated by the mass media. Nearly all of the media have
uniformly laid the TNI bare and drawn the conclusion that the
image of the TNI is terrible in the eyes of society.

Nearly 71 percent of the respondents interviewed in the 15
regencies/municipalities concerned "greatly" appreciated the dual
function of the TNI. They also still regarded the existence of
the territorial command structure as being important. As Tajuk
wrote in October 2000, "the TNI area of military jurisdiction
such as military regional commands, military area commands,
military resort commands, military district commands, and
military subdistrict commands are in the eyes of the majority of
the people still worth maintaining." Likewise, the TNI's socio-
political role at the institutional level is also still
acceptable. Military personnel are excluded from membership of
political parties, both as ordinary members and as members of
their executive boards. Nor are military officers permitted to be
appointed to the position of Attorney General.

The survey reflected the fact that in reality (primarily at
the lowest level) the TNI is still trustworthy and acceptable.
This is a chance for the TNI to restore its national image and
self-confidence. Furthermore they should continue to bravely move
forward together with the people of Indonesia toward a New
Indonesia that is just, peaceful and prosperous, and where mutual
respect prevails.

Should there still be parties who are discrediting the TNI,
they are probably those who wish to take revenge on the TNI or
who are very afraid of the TNI. But one thing is sure, the people
are still longing for the TNI as the survey revealed.

However, the TNI should not necessarily feel too proud of
itself, and should never be arrogant. The military should
continue to enhance its professionalism with the support of the
people.

RUM ROYEN

Ciamis, West Java