U.S. Congress' amendment

The amendment that was passed by the United States House of Representatives should not be interpreted too broadly in its condemnation of Indonesia. The amendment to the Foreign Policy Reform Act was in fact a Sense of Congress Amendment. Many of these types of amendments are passed during each congressional session and attempt to reflect congressional opinion rather than a legal position.

Although the amendment was passed unanimously, it does not mean that every member of the House actually voted for its passage. Unanimous more often than not refers to a simple voice vote or a bloc of amendments that were passed by voice vote.

Finally the amendment was placed onto the bill under the use of the "open rule", meaning that any amendment could be attached by introduction, thereby bypassing the rules committee which would normally oversee which amendments can be added. This seldom-used rule was apparently employed to assure swift passage of the Reform Act in the House so that it could go on to the Senate and then the conference committee where it would be finalized.

This bill must still overcome many hurdles before it becomes law. At each of these stages the amendment could be dropped or diluted by members who support a strong relationship with Indonesia. I have heard from several congressional analysts that this amendment was added as a sense of congress amendment in order to stifle Patrick Kennedy who does not necessarily enjoy wide support or respect from other members of the House even those within his party.

Although this amendment does express congressional concern about alleged human rights abuses in Indonesia it should not be interpreted too broadly. Nor does the bill necessarily reflect as strong a consensus of opinion as the unanimous title suggests.

The Indonesian government, its private sector companies and its citizens must remain diligent in their efforts to strive for stronger relations with the United States. We should not be deterred by the ignorant efforts of one Congressman, pandering to his constituents, looking for greater personal glory while trying to achieve higher office.

ARIAN ARDIE

Jakarta