Waiting for firm action from govt

Waiting for firm action from govt

Nobody can deny our beloved country at this moment is going
through a very difficult time, politically, economically and
security-wise. Even nature is hostile and Indonesia has
experienced strong earthquakes, floods and landslides, with many
people becoming victims and hundreds of them having to leave
their homes. All this adds to the difficulties the weak and
unstable government faces at this moment in trying to find a
solution concerning politics, the economy and security.

This is not the first time Indonesians face such complicated
problems, but every time faced with such problems in the Old
Order and the New Order eras our government managed to find a
solution, thanks to their strong will and resolute steps. The
reform era is expected to do even better. The infant government
in 1948 had to face a communist uprising, but it was quelled in a
very short time. The Dutch government offered help, but the Hatta
government politely refused and everything was settled without
any outside help.

The government was in a very difficult position because the
rebellious elements controlled the area of Sumatra and Sulawesi.
The rebel troops were members of the Indonesian military led by
experienced officers and the movement had the backing of well-
known and experienced politicians like Dahlan Jambek, Sumitro
Djojohadikusumo, M. Natsir and Syafruddin Prawiranegara. And
worse still a foreign country actively supported the rebels by
sending bomber planes.

The success of the government in quelling the rebellious
groups was the results of its firm and uncompromising attitude
and the cohesion between statement and action. The problems faced
by the present government are as difficult and complicated as
those faced by the previous ones. People have the impression that
the present government does not know exactly how to tackle these
problems, or what to tackle first, which results in uncertainty,
hesitation and prolonging the sufferings of the people.

On his visit to the United States, President Abdurrahman Wahid
said to the Indonesian community there that the integrity of the
unitary Indonesian republic must be defended at all costs. Those
who are demanding unreasonable things must be dealt with firmly
and harshly. As reported by The Jakarta Post on Aug. 8, the
President said there is no possibility of compromise with law
violators.

These statements from the President are clear and give no room
for any other interpretation. We are eagerly waiting for action
to be taken as promised in his statements.

SOEGIH ARTO

Jakarta