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