Indonesian Minister Warns of Nation's Collapse if Instability Not Resolved

Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Political, Social and Security Affairs Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono warned of the nation's collapse if questions over the national leadership, stability and security are not quickly resolved.

Alluding to the House of Representatives' memorandum process against President Abdurrahman Wahid and a possible special session of the People's Consultative Assembly, Susilo said the uncertainty will last until July or August.

"This uncertainty will have a severe impact, not only on the political front, but also in our economic, social and security fields," the minister said in a written statement.

Susilo added that he was also concerned that it will be aggravated by political activism which will further agitate the conflict.

"Quite honestly, with the issuance of a memorandum by the House of Representatives against President Abdurrahman Wahid, the credibility and authority of Gus Dur (Wahid's nickname) has decreased, which directly or indirectly has effected the credibility of the government," he was quoted by the Jakarta Post Monday as saying.

Susilo believed that the solution lies in the hands of this nation's political elite: Wahid, Vice President Megawati Soekarnoputri, Assembly Chairman Amien Rais and House Speaker Akbar Tandjung.

The House, the government and major political parties can also influence the solution, he added.

In the statement, Susilo pleaded for an end to the use of violence as a means of resolving the national leadership issue.

"The word is peace and order, no matter how large the mass demonstrations are," he said.

Wahid already faces mounting political pressure after the House last month formally rebuked him for his links to two financial scandals, which could pave the way for his impeachment later this year.

Calls for Wahid's resignation have mounted since early February when the House issued a memorandum censuring him over his alleged involvement in the scandals. But the president brushed aside the mounting protests demanding his resignation with a simple "no problem."






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