Warnings are not enough

Warnings are not enough

Compared to the rallies during the previous elections in 1999, the current campaigning is relatively controlled. There are some reasons for this: First, because the people are fed up with the way in which political parties hold campaigns. Second, that politicians seem to be aware that their speeches during rallies are no longer interesting to the people. The funds for the campaigns are, thus, allocated for media promotions, including television advertisements. Third, the Election Supervisory Committee plays a significant role in controlling the rallies.

Warnings have been given to supporters of almost all parties contesting the general election for violating campaign regulations. And it is interesting that the police have also assisted in enforcing these regulations.

However, in some cases, warnings have been totally ignored by party officials, who believe that no punishment will be forthcoming.

Involving children in rallies is a blatant violation, although children have been observed campaigning since the start of the campaign period. Warning were given, but the parties' supporters ignored them.

Some private television stations have also been warned for the excessive amount of airtime allocated for a particular party. Still, violations continue, because no direct penalty is imposed.

The penalty or punishment will be imposed after the campaign period. So what's the warning for?

-- Warta Kota, Jakarta