Vote counting must be honest

The votes cast in the just completed general election are currently being counted. Obviously this is no easy process. Both technical and non-technical problems are involved. It is also a rather lengthy process and "leaks" could occur here and there.

The public, therefore, hopes the orderly execution of voting is not tarnished in the succeeding stages of the election process. We know that our people are now a good deal more capable of making critical judgment than before. People now tend to easily react against any perceived unfair acts. Accuracy, competence and integrity on the part of all who are involved in this process is required.

This general election is the last before we enter the year 2000. This is why this election is of greater significance than earlier ones. It is especially important as we are poised to enter the 21st century, with all the shocks that it may bring.

Whoever is elected as a representative of the people, or as the one who is to lead Indonesia, must be ready to face the new and bigger challenges that will emerge. They must also be ready to face the rising demands of the population.

-- Republika, Jakarta