Women and children

Women and children

From Media Indonesia

The multidimensional crisis coupled with the conflicts
prevailing among the political elite and the seemingly
unsuccessful effort for reconciliation among the power holders
have apparently caused prolonged suffering to the people, and in
this context, it is women and children who suffer the most.

In the midst of such a chaotic situation, two different views
have come to the forefront. One view is from the group who
aspires for the convening of a special session of the People's
Consultative Assembly through the issuance of memorandum of
censure by the factions in the House of Representatives; and the
other aspires for an accelerated general election, with the
president being elected directly by the people.

To accommodate the conflicting ideas, a middle way should be
sought through the empowerment of gender, solely because the
majority of the population consists of women, who have so far
been marginalized. It would be much fairer if women were included
in decision-making. We would suggest certain subjects, such as
human rights, democracy and the environment, be the main topics.
Viewpoints, such as ways to find a common perception on such
matters as disintegration, equality in the responsibility for
defense and security affairs between civilians and military
personnel, would determine the right vision of the nation in the
future.

Crises of leadership and confidence in political parties
cannot be resolved solely by political parties themselves. But a
third, independent party, one that would voice the aspirations of
the people, is badly needed in order to give more objective input
in addressing the nation's problems. It should be noted that the
people's decision holds the highest authority and is therefore
highly likely to be able to overcome the conflicts gripping the
political elite and the executive power.

RA BERAR FATHIA

Head of Women's Alliance

and National Partnership

Bekasi, West Java