TNI's neutrality

That the chiefs of the Indonesian Military (TNI) have expressed their opposition to President Abdurrahman Wahid's reported plan to dissolve the House of Representatives is appropriate.

I don't agree with Lt. Gen. Agus Wirahadikusumah, who criticized TNI for having become trapped in the political power struggle. Furthermore, Agus said that by opposing the President's wishes (to dissolve the House), TNI has become involved in maneuvers to topple him (The Jakarta Post, May 18, 2001).

As a matter of fact, in the military subordinates must obey the orders of their commander, but in this case the risk is too great for the people and for democracy in the country.

I believe that most of the people are in support of the military's stance, as they can clearly see that TNI is not a tool of power, as it was in the Soeharto era.

ALEXANDER B. KOROH

Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara