Top TNI post turns into a test

Instead of a decision, the changing of the military commander has developed into an issue. The extended delay reflects the strong wish of the chiefs of staff to maintain the status quo and the President's weak determination.

Commander Admiral Widodo AS should have retired in 1999, but his position has been extended several times. The extension has attracted criticism because the military and the President seem to have indicated that some people are indispensable.

The military want to take care of themselves. This has been their attitude during the reform era, while previously they carried out repressive and authoritarian policies. They have taken care of their own interests ... this has included their resistance to the changing of the military commander in chief, as well as the resistance against investigations conducted by the Commission of Inquiry into Human Rights Violations.

Choosing the right commander is not an easy matter, as the laws limit candidates to those who have held, or are holding, the positions of chief of staff. However, all the serving chiefs of staff are themselves nearing retirement age.

Therefore, the changing of the military commander becomes an important test for the President. It will be a test in taking care of the military. Leaving it to the wishes of the status quo will only show a lack of determination in the leadership of the President.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta