Two great leaders

Sukarno is not Soeharto. Each has his own strengths and shortcomings. Nevertheless, those shortcomings should not become a reason for us to formally disclaim their merits.

Sukarno launched the era of independence. Soeharto took this nation into the year of its golden jubilee. If at this moment our people are celebrating their independence, some moments must be dedicated to reminiscing about the two leaders.

Democracy and freedom are the topics of day and the issues of people and populism have become dominant. We agree that more thought must be given to these subjects. However, amid all the excitement let us spare some thoughts for our two great leaders: Sukarno and Soeharto.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta