Two strategic alliances in the making?

Members of Nahdlatul Ulama have announced their declaration of the establishment of the Partai Kebangkitan Bangsa (People's Awakening Party). Unlike similar events in recent weeks, the birth of the People's Awakening Party has attracted much attention from politicians. A number of (retired) generals were present during the ceremony, including former Vice President Try Sutrisno, who "lost the battle" in the recent Golkar national convention. The party's founding is seen as marking the reemergence of elements crippled during the Golkar convention.

During the formalities, Nahdlatul Ulama chairman Abdurrahman Wahid, who has privately already indicated he would form a coalition with (ousted Indonesian Democratic Party chairperson) Megawati Soekarnoputri, was flanked by Try Sutrisno and (former Army chief) Edi Sudradjat. Many non-Moslems were also seen mingling with the crowd.

The presence of Try Sutrisno and Edi Sudradjat opened up an interesting perspective. This was not merely a gesture of political courtesy. Much more than that, the presence of these two leaders of the Barisan National (National Front) -- a new party whose formal establishment is expected to be announced soon -- signals the impending emergence of a strategic alliance.

It can be imagined how fierce the battle (for votes) will be in the coming general election if the People's Awakening Party, the National Front and Megawati -- either under the Indonesian Democratic Party or other banners -- unite in a strategic alliance.

With Gus Dur (Abdurrahman Wahid), Edi and Megawati joining forces in a coalition, Golkar will most certainly not be able to remain inactive. The single majority position in the legislature which Golkar has enjoyed for the past 32 years will be endangered by the new alliance. Therefore, whether one likes it or not, another strategic alliance is bound to come into being. This one will be between Golkar and (Muhammadiyah chairman) Amien Rais, who is expected to form his own political party soon.

Without the need of any legislation, therefore, two great political forces will be born and remain to exist for a long time in this country. This will be good for democracy because people would then be able to clearly see who is in power and who in the opposition.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta