UI academics meet President to convey political concern

JAKARTA (JP): Academics at the University of Indonesia met with President B.J. Habibie on Thursday to convey their concern over the ongoing political bickering, lamenting that political elites had no interest in understanding public aspirations.

Led by UI Rector Asman Boedisantoso, the academicians warned the elites not to arbitrarily exercise political rights and ignore their obligation to the public.

They also warned politicians not to intensify political conflicts before the next People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) General Session, which could foil the session itself.

"Their political maneuvers should be more refined," Asman said, after meeting with the President at Merdeka Palace.

"We came to disclose the concerns of ordinary citizens who are waiting for an improvement of their welfare."

Asman said their meeting with Habibie differed from their visit to former president Soeharto at his private residence on Jl. Cendana, Central Jakarta, five days before he quit on May 21.

At that time, they persuaded Soeharto to step down, arguing that his resignation was the best way to end nationwide riots and student demonstrations demanding his abdication.

Asman, a professor of medicine, asserted the upcoming General Session would face a deadlock if political leaders continued their bickering. He said the General Session should be able to accommodate all aspirations.

"(Members) must avoid a public rejection of the results of the General Session," he said. The agenda of the session includes, among other things, the presidential election.

Asman added they suggested the establishment of an independent body to ensure provision of staple food items, of which prices benefited farmers more than consumers. Government policy, through the National Logistics Agency, had so far only benefited consumers, he said.

The suggestion was based on a recent study by the University's postgraduate school. (prb)