Military

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC

INDONESIA: "Habibie Not The Image Of Fundamental Change"

Muslim intellectual Republika commented (5/29): "President Habibie, meeting the faction chairpersons of the House of Representatives (DPR) and the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) for discussions yesterday, surely did not present a picture of fundamental political change. However, as an initial step to balance relations between the executive and the legislature, what Habibie did can...be called a positive move.... Our hope is that such consultations can be held as often as possible."

"Number Of Parties Should Be Limited"

Armed Forces' Angkatan Bersenjata pointed out (5/29): "The new political laws should limit the number of parties.... For example, only parties that gain five seats may continue as parties.... Perhaps, only six or seven parties would be enough to accommodate the public's aspirations for the country."

"Total Reform Is Just That"

The leading, independent Jakarta Post asserted (5/29): "There are some people who pin their hopes on Habibie's concept of total reform...but we are concerned that this will be just a farce to prolong the life of a new status quo. We believe that the meeting of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) is the only solution. But since the majority of MPR members were handpicked by Soeharto, factions need to replace their members to increase the level of democracy."

"Political Instability"

The government-oriented Indonesian Observer noted (5/29): "Things have developed so fast that political leaders have started plans to form new political parties for participation in the coming elections. However, it would be well to keep in mind that too large a number of political parties may become a source of political instability."

"On Releasing Political Prisoners"

Leading independent Kompas held (5/28): "The release of activists Sri Bintang Pamungkas and Mochtar Pakpahan...demonstrated the Habibie administration's commitment to meet demands for reform.... Reforms had better be implemented quickly in all of the urgent sectors, the sectors that will pave the way to democratization. All this must be carried out now in a thorough manner, in line with the demands for reform."

"Habibie And Legitimacy"

The independent Media Indonesia argued (5/28): "Any effort to legitimize Habibie's presidency outside the forum of the House of Representatives/People's Consultative Assembly (DPR/MPR) represents a failure to understand democracy.... The DPR/MPR, the only institutions that can give a mandate, must not feel that their authority has been stolen by this group or that committee. This is a reminder for all of us that whoever sows the wind will reap the whirlwind."

"Reforms And Belated Champions"

Independent Berita Buana observed (5/28): "Recently, like mushrooms, various parties have been popping up promising reform.... What attracted our attention was that, out of the many new parties, not one had students or student representatives, (when,) in fact, it was students who struggled to crush the New Order regime....

"Councils and committees are set up and given legitimacy, even though no one knows where those people were when the students were baking under the sun shouting for reforms in front of the security apparatus's guns."

"Free Them All"

The leading, independent Jakarta Post asserted (5/28): "An unconditional release of political prisoners would certainly do much to restore this country's poor human rights reputation, tattered further in the past months by reported abductions and torture of student and political activists, the forceful repression of peaceful demonstrations and the fatal shootings of students in Jakarta.... Regarding Jose Alexandre 'Xanana' Gusmao: the government may find it worthwhile--if only for practical reasons--to consider the release of the East Timorese leader as well.... Xanana's release would certainly lift the new government's standing abroad significantly.... Should the government feel uncomfortable with the idea of having Xanana walk free on Indonesian soil, it could always ask a friendly country--Australia or South Africa, perhaps--to accept the East Timorese leader. The issue of political prisoners, Xanana included, has long been a thorn in Indonesia's side. It is time that we resolve this problem once and for all."

"Reforms In The Press"

Independent Suara Pembaruan held (5/28): "In an era when the public demands political, economic, and legal reforms, reforms in the rules pertaining to press freedom should become the top priority. And, the initiatives, we believe, should come from the press community itself, because the press knows best the reforms needed for the demands of modern society."

"A Fixed Date For The Elections"

The government-oriented English-language Indonesian Observer maintained (5/28): "President Habibie has begun receiving some of the prominent reformist figures like Emil Salim, Adnan Buyung Nasution, Rudini, Nurcholis Madjid, but we have noticed that he has omitted to send similar invitations to student leaders. This may not only be interpreted as an act of playing off the students against the reformist leaders, but that the government does not consider students to possess sufficient maturity to attend such weighty discussions...(on) elections and parliamentary democracy."

"Two Formidable Figures"

According to the government-oriented Indonesian Observer (5/28): "Two formidable opposition figures who have just regained their freedom--Sri Bintang Pamungkas and Mochtar Pakpahan--are expected to instill great liveliness in the political life of this country.... We welcome their appearance on the political scene and look forward to their contribution to the growth of more justice for the people."

"New Parties"

The independent Media Indonesia opined (5/27): "Thoughts of setting up new parties, which used to be considered a violation of the Pancasila state ideology, are now being encouraged. Syarwan Hamid--who, as the chief of social and political affairs of the Armed Forces, was known as the expert of ideology for 'purifying' the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI), now Minister of Home Affairs--has given a positive signal to Megawati, saying she could establish a new party if she does not want to return to PDI.... Since people realize that Golkar is phony, it should be ready to receive unpleasant news from the voters in the upcoming election.... Although it is still a long way to election day, it is not too soon to say 'good-bye' to Golkar and 'welcome' to the new parties.'"

"Lowering The High Political Temperature"

Independent Suara Pembaruan told its readers (5/27): "The political atmosphere remains tense.... Numerous problems, such as the shooting of students, disappearances, the establishment of new political parties and the release of political detainees and prisoners, will still require cautious handling.... The best way to cool down the political temperature is a special session of the Consultative Assembly."

"Habibie's Economic Agenda"

The leading, independent, English-language Jakarta Post asserted (5/27): "World Bank loans are badly needed to assist the immediate establishment of a social safety net, including labor-intensive programs to employ the millions of jobless workers. The longer such initiatives are delayed, the more serious become the risks of a new wave of social unrest and rioting engulfing the country."

"Fascinating Time Ahead"

The government-oriented Indonesian Observer judged (5/27): "There will be no doubt that the emergence of dauntless figures like Pamungkas and Pakpahan, who dare to criticize and challenge authority, will bring about a new dimension in the political struggle. We are facing fascinating times ahead."

"Mere Window Dressing"

The leading, independent English-language Jakarta Post commented (5/26): "Judging by those he chose for his cabinet, one could easily jump to the conclusion that Habibie is working in the shadow of the former president, whom he used to call 'my political professor.'... Ultimately, this country could do with a new attitude, but tragically it is the bureaucracy which needs the overhaul.... Habibie should...abandon the old political culture and embrace a new one by, for example, shaking up his cabinet and firing all of Soeharto's errand boys and other suspect personalities. We are sorry to say, but Habibie obviously lacks the potential to do it. It is understandable that as things stand now, many people want Habibie to quit because expecting him to implement total reform is just thinking the unthinkable."

"Positive Signs From New Administration"

Leading, independent Kompas said (5/26): "Under the current atmosphere and spirit of reforms, however hard it might be, the government--all of us--should immediately help recreate a situation that will lead to administrative and economic recovery."

"Breaking With The Past"

The government-oriented English-language Indonesian Observer held (5/26): "Never before in recent times, for example, have the people enjoyed so much freedom in discussing just about any political issue in the horizon. There is little doubt that the nation is poised to enter a crucial period that will decide how we will fare, for better or for worse, in the next millennium. But for the time being, it is reassuring to know that in facing the future, many of our leaders are willing to break with the past."

"House Of Representatives In Transition"

Nationalistic Merdeka held (5/26): "The entire legislature (both houses) should be dissolved as soon as possible so that a general election can make people's sovereignty the sole principle of the nation."

"Opposition Should Show Restraint"

The government-oriented English-language Indonesian Observer insisted (5/25): "For now, everyone should refrain from making excessive demands which will only deviate the attention of the cabinet from concentrating on its main task."

"Commitment To Reform"

The independent Media Indonesia stated (5/23): "Unless a general election is held, the constitutional legality of Habibie's administration will always be in question."

"Do Not Let Reform Goals Go Astray"

This was the view of independent Suara Pembaruan (5/23): "Debates on succession procedures and other issues, such as a limitation on presidential terms as voiced by House Speaker Harmoko recently, can only be settled in a special session of the People's Consultative Assembly."

"The Habibie Team"

The leading, independent Jakarta Post expressed this opinion (5/23): "The cabinet (President Habibie) announced...though not perceived as corrupt, collusive and nepostistic as the last Soeharto Cabinet, fell far short of what is needed to accelerate the overall reform process and to lead a paralyzed economy into a robust recovery."

"From Soeharto To Habibie"

Independent Media Indonesia held (5/22): "Admit it or not, Habibie is, excuse us, a man of conflict. Therefore, it is hard to see how his leadership will be able to cope with conflicts...including the pros and cons over the validity of his presidency.... As did Habibie, we should thank Soeharto for having led this country through all the difficulties of the past three decades. As for President Habibie, we remind him not to treat critics as adversaries. A smart student is the one that does not repeat his teacher's mistakes."

"Habibie Replaces Soeharto"

Ruling Golkar Party's Suara Karya said in an editorial (5/22): "The new cabinet Habibie will name, besides ensuring reforms, should heed the public's aspirations to eradicate collusion, corruption, and nepotism."

"Can We Be Optimistic?"

The leading, independent Jakarta Post argued (5/22): "Habibie is a part of the old, entrenched system and is not far from authoritarianism, cronyism, collusion and nepotism.... Despite his unarguable intellect, (Mr. Habibie) is well known as intolerant of ideas which differed from his own; until recently, he had openly opposed the public demand for complete reform.... For these very reasons, it is hard to believe he will be able to realize what the people want."

CHINA: "Aid To Indonesia--IMF Raises The Ante"

Gao Shijun commented in the official Chinese Youth Party China Youth Daily (Zhongguo Qingnianbao, 5/27): "Indonesia's neighbors hope the IMF will adopt a flexible attitude in resuming loans to Indonesia because they are fearful of a further deterioration of the Indonesian economy and a potential subsequent wave of refugees crossing the borders."

"New Indonesian President Faces Severe Challenges"

China Radio International and official Beijing Municipal Beijing Daily (Beijing Ribao) noted (5/23): "Easing the current economic crisis is believed to be the biggest challenge (Habibie) faces."

"Soeharto's Resignation Generates Thinking"

Official Economic Daily devoted (5/22) an entire page to the unrest in Indonesia, including the following by Yan Hengyuan, who wrote under the above headline: "Soeharto's resignation is directly associated with the harsh terms of IMF loans.... Western countries were, in fact, taking advantage of other's difficulties, either forcing the crisis-ridden nations to open their markets or adopting measures harmful to the stability of the region."

"Soeharto Forced To Step Down"

Wang Hong said in the official Chinese Youth Party China Youth Daily (Zhongguo Qingnianbao, 5/22): "The intensified financial crisis and turmoil in Indonesia, as well as increasing bureaucracy and corruption among high-ranking officials finally shook Soeharto's regime."

"Economic Crisis--The Cause"

Hu Guangyao and Yu Qianliang noted in intellectually-oriented Guangming Daily (Guangming Ribao, 5/22): "The continuous deterioration of the Indonesian economic crisis is the cause of Soeharto's resignation.... Military presence will be important in the stabilization of the current Indonesian situation."

HONG KONG: "Habibie's Ability To Run State Has To Stand A Test"

According to the independent Sing Pao Daily News (5/22): "The United States is good at trimming its sails. After it ascertained that Soeharto had lost the support of the people, and that the military, refusing to carry out any bloody suppression, sympathized with the people, U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright made a strong statement asking Soeharto to leave office. Without U.S. support, Soeharto was like [someone who has been] thrown into the sea without a piece of wood to keep him afloat.... His only choice was to resign as soon as possible."

TAIWAN: "U.S. Biggest Winner In Asian Financial Crisis"

Hsu Chung-chiu wrote in the centrist/pro-status quo Commercial Times (5/22): "Since Indonesian strongman Soeharto stepped down, the United States has been the biggest winner to come out of the Asian financial crisis.... Now that the Asian value system has collapsed, what then, is the new major value system in Asia? Perhaps so-called American values.... The actions of U.S. government in the Asian financial crisis are no different than [those of George Soros]: Hiding behind the IMF, the United States interfered in the economic policies of Thailand, South Korea, Indonesia and the Philippines, using relief loans to force these countries to come to terms.... With the United States in a leading role, the IMF on the surface seemed to want to assist these financially plagued countries. But actually, the United States intended to prevent its own economy from being affected by the Asian financial storm and to quickly expand its influence in these countries."

JAPAN: "Habibie Has No Raison D'Etre But Reform"

Business-oriented Nihon Keizai editorialized (5/28), "President Habibie, with a small political base and a weak case for legitimacy, has no other raison d'etre for his government than 'reform.'...

"It is widely believed that President Habibie's ties to the Indonesian military are weak. Therefore, it is all the more urgent that he revise the country's election law quickly and hold early general and presidential elections."

"Difficulties Ahead For Indonesia"

Top-circulation, moderate Yomiuri told its readers (5/22): "From now on, Indonesia will have to resolve the problems that are part of Soeharto's legacy. It is doubtful whether new President Habibie will be able to display the political leadership needed to meet this challenge."

AUSTRALIA: "Please Be Brief"

The liberal Canberra Times insisted (5/27): "Dr. Habibie must be encouraged to appreciate that the value of his presidency is in direct proportion to its brevity."

"East Timor Acid Test"

The liberal Sydney Morning Herald stated (5/27): "If President Habibie is serious about breaking with the past he could release East Timorese prisoners...order a scaling back of Indonesia's military presence there and open a dialogue on genuine autonomy.... President Habibie...(could then) prove he can be trusted to deliver on the other political reforms he has promised."

"Habibie's Rise Will Maintain The Rage"

Sydney's national, conservative Australian had this op-ed piece (5/22) by foreign editor Greg Sheridan: "The students on the streets, and significantly now the Americans, want democratic reform. Habibie's ascension to the presidency doesn't represent democratic reform. He is totally identified with Soeharto and the old dispensation.... Momentum for further change will build."

"Soeharto's Exit Only A Beginning"

The liberal Canberra Times stressed (5/22): "Soeharto's exit is only a beginning: Indonesia's new president must keep his predecessor's promise of early elections."

MALAYSIA: "Greedy, Deceptive Capitalism"

The government-influenced Business Times opined (5/29): "Did someone say Soeharto's resignation would bring back stability to Indonesia and markets in the region?... This change, which the international community had called crucial, does not seem to have made much of an impact on the republic's critical economy.... Soeharto's resignation was hailed internationally, just as the resignation in Thailand and South Korea earlier were welcomed, but it is quite apparent now for South Korea, Thailand and Indonesia that a change in government is not the answer to the economic problems the region is facing.... It is very much a mind game, a psychological warfare that takes advantage of the less well-prepared network of intelligence of the countries in this region. We only thought that we had mastered the free market philosophy and way of life, but nothing has prepared most of us for the naked face of greed, deception and manipulation that must accompany capitalism at its best, or, rather, worst."

"Time For Foreign Governments, Financial Bodies To Help"

The government-influenced, English-language Star's editorial said (5/22): "Many foreign governments have been calling for President Soeharto to step down to save his country.

"Now that he has done so, it is time for them and the international financial community to put their money where their mouth is.... It is indeed sad that Soeharto was forced out in this manner.... He would have continued in office if outside forces had not forced Indonesia to its financial knees."

PHILIPPINES: "Winds Of Change"

The third leading national Philippine Star said in an editorial (5/27): "It may be too early for optimism, but the hand-picked successor of resigned Indonesian President Soeharto has so far been making the right moves.... A fresh wind is blowing across Indonesia, and Habibie, derided as an icon of profligacy in the Soeharto cabinet, must be encouraged to keep the winds of change blowing. Habibie is surely aware that he may be nothing more than a transition president, cushioning the fall of the Soehartos and their cronies. But if Habibie continues his reforms, he will be Indonesia's brightest hope yet for that nation's transition to democracy."

"Did Soeharto Step Down, Or Step Aside?"

The independent Manila Times' editorial asked (5/22): "Did Soeharto step down, or...just step aside? Did he give up power or just its reins? Either way, the challenge for the new leadership remains the same: to satisfy the Indonesian people's hunger for democracy and economic relief. If Habibie fails, he will go the way (of) his predecessor."

"Of Gloom And Hope"

Independent Malaya argued in an editorial (5/22): "Indonesians are stuck with the same clique that has ruled over them for the last 33 years, this time without Soeharto.... But enough of the gloom. People Power has sent another dictator packing. Next, the thugs of Rangoon?"

SINGAPORE: "Economic Crisis First, Political Freedoms Next"

The pro-government Straits Times (5/29) carried this commentary by its chief regional correspondent, Lee Kim Chew: "It is instructive that the first American politician [Christopher Smith] to visit Indonesia...after the fall of...Soeharto is a congressman who...is more interested in political freedoms [than in how] the United States can help Jakarta tackle its massive economic problems.... Fine sentiments these, but...what are the priorities...in post-Soeharto Indonesia?... The instinctive reaction is to welcome the fall of an authoritarian ruler and herald the dawn of a new democratic era. Nothing wrong with that really, but first things first... Help the Indonesians to deal with the economic crisis first. Political freedoms can come next."

"Washington Just An Interested Bystander"

Washington correspondent Leon Hadar pointed out in the pro-government Business Times (5/29): "Conspiracy theorists in the United States are trying to describe last week's resignation of...Soeharto as...[a] scheme engineered by the CIA and the...IMF.... After all, they will ask, was it really a coincidence that the Indonesian leader's announcement...came only a few hours [after] Secretary Albright called on Mr. Soeharto to leave office? ... [But] America's role...[seemed] that of an interested (bystander.)... It didn't have a hand in...the plot... Instead, it worked behind the scenes...trying to make sure that...things didn't get out of control. If anything, the Clinton administration, concerned over the potential for political chaos and bloodshed, refrained from putting direct pressure on Mr. Soeharto."

"Habibie's Right Moves"

The pro-government Business Times had this editorial (5/26): "The key to Indonesia's recovery from the trauma of the past few weeks has to do with that elusive thing called confidence.

"So far, in the first few days of his administration, Dr. Habibie has done all the right things. But the test will be the priority he places on investor confidence--in particular whether the government will welcome foreign direct investments as well as portfolio investments."

SOUTH KOREA: "Broad Reform Expected"

Independent Hankyoreh Shinmun (5/26) commented: "Indonesia is expected to pursue broad reform. The government's announcement of early elections and its professed intention to release political prisoners are the first signs of that.... Being politically fragile, the Habibie administration had no choice but to agree to hold early elections.... These measures may indicate the early emergence of Commander Wiranto as the nation's political leader. The first test for the country is whether elections can be held in six months."

"End Of Authoritarianism In Name Of Development"

According to pro-business Joong-Ang Ilbo (5/22), "All the fantasies and positive evaluations of (Asian-style) authoritarian rulers--'for the sake of economic development'--died with the fall of the Soeharto regime. It proves that the promise of economic prosperity under authoritarianism is just an excuse for rulers to maintain their power.... Seeing how forcefully the once powerful president was brought down makes us think about the values of an open society and the efforts to achieve it."

THAILAND: "One Dictator Down, Others Will Follow"

The independent, English-language Nation predicted (5/27): "With the military snapping at his heels, unemployment topping 10 million and food shortages looming, Habibie is not likely to last long. But whatever the future, Indonesia will never go back to the dark days of a Soeharto dictatorship--the democracy genie has crawled out of the bottle.... Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad...(may be) forced to eat his words and acknowledge that there is indeed a genuine pro-democracy movement in Indonesia. But of all the dictators nervously watching for fallout from the Indonesian crisis, Burma's military junta should be feeling a shiver run down its spine....(with) the likelihood of Burmese students taking the lead from their Indonesian colleagues and once again challenging the junta."

"Political Law Of Nature--Oppression Leads To Struggle"

The lead editorial of sensationalistic Khao Sod concluded (5/27): "What has come to pass in Indonesia is nothing extraordinary, but the work of the law of political nature: Where there is oppression, there is struggle.... (But) the military, the real power behind the throne, is restructuring itself, and it is worth monitoring to see if all these new developments are meant to perpetuate the 'Soeharto legacy.'"

"East Timor Will Expose Habibie's True Colors"

The lead editorial in the independent Nation remarked (5/24): "If Habibie is to be more than a puppet for the Soeharto clan he can start by immediately releasing the political prisoners held by Jakarta."

"Good News For The Region"

Kavi Chongkittavorn wrote in the independent Nation (5/22), "If Habibie holds on to the presidency for too long, he will certainly drive a wedge in the country. His job is to serve as a transitional leader to prepare and oversee new elections that must come by the end of this year... Indonesia's moves toward reform will place pressure on other less democratic ASEAN countries.... This is good news for the region."

"Indonesians Likely To Fire Habibie"

Under the above headline, the top-circulation, moderately conservative Bangkok Post opined (5/22): "The national debate on how Indonesia will be governed must be open and free. Foreign friends should let Indonesians know their neighbors and other influential nations back their fight for more political freedom."

"Encouraging To Human Rights Campaigners"

Saritdet Marukatat concluded in the independent The Nation (5/22), "The prospect of a more democratic society in post-Soeharto Indonesia will be very encouraging to human rights campaigners who want to see improvements in the treatment of social problems by ASEAN.... Without a common political ideology, (ASEAN's) unity comes across as very fragile."

"Congratulations!"

Lead edit of elite Naew Na commented (5/22), "Our congratulations to Indonesia. We hope that the new Indonesian leadership will immediately launch political reform and genuinely bring the country onto the path of democracy."

SOUTH ASIA

INDIA: "Exit Soeharto"

An editorial (5/22) in the centrist Times of India concluded: "Welcome as...Soeharto's departure would be to Indonesians, it may well not be the end of the story. For his successor and Vice President B.J. Habibie is a loyal ally who, though well versed in business and technology, lacks political acumen. Many in the opposition, in fact, feel that Mr. Soeharto is only trying to perpetuate his rule through Mr. Habibie.... Indonesia's political and economic renewal now seems to hinge on how well Mr. Amein Rais, who has emerged the credible rallying point of the opposition, can marshal his forces and to what extent neighboring nations and allies like the United States are willing to help the process of change."

PAKISTAN: "Indonesia After Soeharto"

Aziz-ud-Din Ahmad penned this for the center-right Nation (5/28): "That the West suffered Soeharto for over three decades is enough to expose the double standards employed by its leaders. Similarly, the autocratic system practiced by Soeharto is also a reflection on the claims made by the ideologues of the free market economy that globalization promotes democracy and human rights. While Soeharto cancelled human rights in the name of economic development, he has left the center stage with Indonesia being the worst sufferer in the East Asian meltdown."

BANGLADESH: "Post-Soeharto Indonesia"

According to the independent Bangladesh Observer (5/25): "The economy of Indonesia is in as much need of retrieval as democracy needs restoration in the country. It is paradoxical that corruption and affluence have gone hand in hand for quite some time. The history of Asian tigers--South Korea, Japan, among others--all give the same account. There should be some research on the relation between the two, as well as on military dictatorship and development. While the utilization of the $43-billion package of the IMF is taken up to bail out the economy, an expert committee should examine the ways of democratizing the constitution of the country."

NEPAL: "Army Must Be Kept Out Of Politics"

Pro-left Chhalphal (5/24) commented: "The Soeharto era has ended, but the administrative power of army generals has not been curtailed.... Unless the army is kept out of politics, democracy in Indonesia will remain as it was during Soeharto's regime.... It is ironic that the United States, which always praised Soeharto's repressive rule, is now shamelessly saying that Soeharto's resignation will be a positive step for Indonesia.... European and American imperialism have contributed much to the present situation in this Southeast Asian country."

"End Of An Era"

In the view of the independent Kathmandu Post (5/22): "It is to be hoped that with his [Soeharto] resignation, the era of the individual strongman in running the affairs of state will now come to an end."

EUROPE

GERMANY: "First Steps"

Wolfgang Guenter Lerch had this to say in an editorial in right-of-center Frankfurter Allgemeine (5/26): "In Indonesia, new President Habibie is carefully beginning the liquidation of the Soeharto era. His announcement of early elections within a year is an important step, as is the release of the first dissidents and political prisoners. His plan to 'disentangle' the assets, illegally acquired by the Soeharto clan, should also reassure the people in Indonesia.... But the greatest task is how to stimulate Indonesia's economy without creating new unease among the people."

"Habibie Getting Rid Of Legacy He Inherited"

Centrist Sueddeutsche Zeitung of Munich (5/26) carried this editorial: "Habibie is a smart man who knows full well that the powerful democracy movement will reject him as Soeharto's man as long as he refuses to allow a fresh wind of freedom to blow.... There is no doubt that, with his attempts to disassociate himself from the Soeharto regime, President Habibie is moving in the right direction, but he has no other chance if he wants to get the support of the people and--this is at least as important--to regain the confidence of international donors."

"Habibie: Only A Transition"

National radio Deutschlandfunk (5/22) aired these comments by Rolf Siebert, "It is a sign of hope that the autocrat, who shamelessly exploited his own people, was kicked out of office by peaceful 'people power.'... (But) Habibie is Soeharto's man.... Hardly anybody in Indonesia and the rest of the world believes that he can achieve (the promised reforms.)"

BRITAIN: "Indonesians Now Deserve West's Full Support"

The conservative Daily Telegraph's editorial remarked (5/22), "So far, so good. A massacre of possibly Tiananmen Square proportions was averted on Wednesday by the cancellation of a protest march, and yesterday President Soeharto bowed to popular pressure and resigned. Indonesia has thus rid itself of a dictator without the orgy of blood-letting that accompanied the fal of the Sukarno regime in the 1960s.... No one should doubt the scale of the challenge facing Mr. Soeharto's successors. The country's scattered geography, ethnic and religious tensions, the pervasive corruption of the old order, the collapse of the economy--all would tax the cleanest and most experienced administration. But the main obstacle to reform, the old president, has stepped down.

"Indonesians are to be congratulated on ending his long rule without the brutality that has scarred many changes of regime in Asia over the past few decades. They now deserve the full support of the West as they embark on the difficult transition to a more democratic polity."

FRANCE: "Skepticism In Washington"

Under the headline above, Jean-Jacques Mevel observed in right-of-center Le Figaro (5/22): "Washington's obvious lack of support for Soeharto's designated successor reveals the extent of Washington's skepticism.... As with the Philippines and South Korea, Indonesia's transition may be long and eventful. No one, including Washington, knows what will emerge from the present confusion.... For Bill Clinton, the problem is more complicated than with Marcos...because Indonesia's population is three times that of the Philippines, and U.S. influence is limited.... Soeharto's end marks the end of a series of dictators abandoned by Washington because they had lost their strategic usefulness."

ITALY: "U.S. Already Looks Beyond New President"

Typical headlines included: "Soeharto Resigns and Indonesia Hopes'" (Corriere della Sera), "Soeharto's Scepter to His Adopted Son" (La Stampa) and "U.S. Already Looks Beyond New President" (L'Unita). An editorial in left-leaning, influential La Repubblica commented (5/22): "America and Clinton abandoned Soeharto, even though they conceded him an honorable withdrawal. We do not know whether the people of Indonesia will accept this decision. Actually, there is a great demand for justice in Indonesia.... However, all are aware that...the opinion and advice of the American friend was listened to, too."

AZERBAIJAN: "Indonesia's 'Patriarch' Gone"

Cingiz Teymur held in opposition Azadliq (5/22): "Soeharto's entourage prefers to preserve the decades-old political system (upon)...Soeharto's resignation.... Perhaps, certain reforms will be conducted, but they will not be on a large scale.... It is hard to say whether the opposition will agree to such a prospect. No doubt, however, that, by sending Soeharto to retirement, [others] took the initiative into its own hands. For the opposition, the first stage of the struggle is over, and the direction of the second stage only depends on the opposition's resoluteness."

CANADA: "Life After Soeharto"

International affairs columnist Marcus Gee observed in the leading Globe and Mail (5/27): "The next few months will be rocky.... Generals such as Soeharto's son-in-law Prabowo Subianto could strike back and try to take over the government. The economic crisis may...get worse, causing new rioting and attacks on ethnic Chinese scapegoats. East Timor may make a new break for independence. But at least now, Indonesia has a chance to fix the mess left by Soeharto and build some kind of future for itself. The country where nothing ever seemed to happen is alive with change. It's going to be a fascinating year."

CZECH REPUBLIC: "Stability Is Not Free"

Prague's prestigious intellectual weekly Respekt made these points (5/28): "The end of Soeharto's era has put new questions before Indonesia: Where is the country going?... No one except students talks about democracy.... The key to the Indonesian puzzle is in the hands of the military again.... It will not give up its power voluntarily. It is not clear whether it will defend the old system or...promote the fast introduction of reforms. In any case, it would like to avoid further bloodshed.... If the ever deteriorating economic situation is not resolved soon, the Indonesian pot will explode with spontaneous violence again.... In a country that has known nothing but authoritarian leaders...the road to democracy will not be easy. But it will pay off. The price for maintaining the current rigid system would be much higher."

HUNGARY: "Habibie's Days Are Numbered"

Influential Magyar Hirlap had this to say (5/22): "One could spend a lot of time analyzing the factors that made Soeharto resign, but it's more important to think about what comes next for Indonesia. Although one era has ended, a new one has not yet started because the presidential chair is taken by a Soeharto follower. The face may be new but the system has not changed. Even worse, while Soeharto had the support of the military and key business communities, the same does not apply to Habibie. What unites [the military and business communities] is hatred of the successor, whom they consider totally incompetent for the job. Habibie's days are numbered--no analyst gives him more then six more months. Leaders of the opposition have that half-year to win the support of the army and to have (Indonesian Armed Forces chief) Wiranto assume control. But this would the better scenario. If we take the worse one, students won't give Habibie even a day but will continue to demand his resignation, just as they demonstrated against Soeharto. If that happens, General Wiranto will have to decide--and immediately."

POLAND: "Fancy Daydreams On Java"

Centrist Rzeczpospolita featured this commentary by Kazimierz Dziewanowski (5/23): "The magnificent world of Asian values, which were supposed to better realize their objectives than those that had ever been conceived of by Europe, proved equally as bloody and as cruel.... It turns out that people in every part of the world want almost the same [thing]: Basically, they want to be recognized and respected as complete human beings. They wish to be perceived as free men--with a right to present their [personal] viewpoint and to have work for themselves and their families."

"Habibie Has Days, Maybe Months"

According to centrist Rzeczpospolita (5/22): "Indonesia has entered a transition period. Habibie has days...or maybe months to rule. Nobody believes that Habibie's rule will continue until 2003.... The paradox of democracy in South East Asia is...that it usually emerges from aspirations of a class which came into existence thanks to the political-military protection of a despotic regime."

RUSSIA: "IMF's Role Needs To Be Reviewed"

Reformist weekly Itogi (5/26) published this comment by Sergei Strokan: "As the Big Eight talked about the IMF's leading role in resolving the Indonesia crisis, the bank's officials fled Jakarta, anxious for their safety. As a result, the Eight could do no more than urge economic and political reforms in that country. The mountain brought forth a mouse. Reassessing Soeharto's legacy calls for reviewing the role of the IMF and other international institutions."

"Voters Don't Trust Habibie"

Konstantin Slyusarenko opined from Kuala Lumpur for centrist Nezavisimaya Gazeta (5/26): "Habibie is unlikely to stay long in the presidential chair, his credibility with voters seriously damaged by his many-year friendship with Soeharto."

"No Real Guarantees For Soeharto"

Andrei Grachev judged in reformist weekly Moskovskiye Novosti (#20, 5/26): "Who, apart from Soeharto himself, takes seriously the 'inviolability guarantees' Defense Minister Wiranto has given him and his family with their multibillion fortune? Habibie does not stand much chance either."

SPAIN: "Succession"

Eduardo Haro Tecglen wrote in liberal El Pais (5/24): "I hope no one will become irritated because I fail to feel sad about Soeharto's fall from power, but neither do I feel any special joy. Any time a swine like this departs, there is always another one ready to take over, and Vice President Habibie may want to stay on until 2003 when his term officially ends.... The civilian most likely to succeed at the moment is Amien Rais, educated in and by the United States, and now said to be the candidate of the CIA which has held sway in Indonesia during the last 30 years."

"Only Certainty: Challenges"

Barcelona's centrist La Vanguardia opined (5/22): "General Soeharto's resignation....has prevented Jakarta from becoming another Tiananmen Square. But Indonesia has now entered a stage in which the only sure thing is that it will be plagued with challenges.... Soeharto rejected the IMF's financial reforms because he knew they meant the end of the system he had put in place. Indonesia had developed under Soeharto...but it became a giant with feet of clay--with an economy [dominated by only a few], a corrupt financial system, and without liberty, which is what the Indonesian people demanded as a counterpart to economic development.... Soeharto's resignation was the best service he could have provided to his country at the moment. What remains to be seen now is whether Indonesians will be able to take advantage of this historic juncture in order to put their house in democratic order."

"Habibie's Recognized Technical Abilities"

Conservative ABC editorialized (5/22): "What is important (for Indonesia now)...is how to bring about change so that it appears neither too gradual...nor so rapid as to endanger...fair and democratic reforms. From all appearances, those worthy goals would appear to be within reach. The prudence with which opposition leaders have conducted themselves in bringing Soeharto down nourishes the hope that Habibie will be allowed to bring his recognized technical abilities to bear in dismantling the former system.... Let us hope that the transformation to be brought about under Habibie's direction...comes to pass without delay, and with free and fair elections as their ultimate objective."

THE NETHERLANDS: "Why Not Go For The Grand Gesture?"

Noting the release of two prominent political prisoners in Indonesia, including labor union leader Mochtar Pakpahan, influential, liberal De Volkskrant asked (5/26): "Why not make a courageous gesture and release all 200 political prisoners? Why not set a date for new elections? Why not allow free organization of political parties... There is only one way to generate that confidence: The Indonesian government has to get over its hesitations and take the lead in the democratization process."

MIDDLE EAST

QATAR: "Indonesia Hits An Iceberg"

Semi-independent Al-Watan had this editorial view (5/22): "Soeharto resigned, but Indonesia's troubles have not ended. In fact, they may have just begun.... Soeharto succeeded in bringing Indonesia prosperity...with an annual growth rate of 6 percent since the 1970s. It took only a few months...and the economic miracle became a catastrophe, just as when the Titanic met the iceberg. Announcing his resignation, Soeharto looked like the Titanic's captain, with a tired face, unsure steps, and faltering words."

AFRICA

BURKINA FASO: "Moral Anachronism"

Independent weekly L'Independent stressed (5/26): "After 32 years of dictatorship, Soeharto ended up being hated and fought from the interior of the system.... The lesson to be drawn is that nowadays, all dictatorships, whether veiled, coated with honey with a bitter aftertaste like the one in Burkina Faso, or naked and raw like Eyadema's, or raw and gold-digging like Kabila's, all dictatorships have no future but a tragic disappearance."

"Failure Of The Asian Model"

Independent Le Journal du Soir exclaimed (5/25-26): "Half of the thousand members of the Indonesian parliament are nominated by the president!... The resignation of Soeharto, the current unruliness, are...the result of a crisis that touches the foundations of the Indonesian model."

"To Those Keen On Being President-For-Life"

Independent L'Observateur had this editorial view (5/25): "You might say that this less than glorious exit by Soeharto should make those who boast of holding records of longevity at the head of their countries (besides, with what results?) or the lovers of unlimited mandates, who dream maybe of a presidency for life, think again. Because they always wind up being loathed by their countrymen, when they could have chosen to leave while they still have their esteem."

NIGERIA: "Lesson For All Sit-Tight Leaders"

In a piece pointing to the similarities between Nigeria and Indonesia, Lagos's pro-labor Vanguard held (5/22), "The current political development in Indonesia could not have been more timely for leaders who will not learn from the experience of others. The country's president for 32 years, Soeharto, was forced to quit office at a time he least expected.... Soeharto's case is a lesson for leaders who still believe that the steam of the Cold War era can now propel their train into the future. If a performing Soeharto can fall in economically viable Indonesia, which sit-tight leader cannot?"

LATIN AMERICA AND CARIBBEAN

ARGENTINA: "How Much Is The Future Worth?"

Oscar Raúl Cardoso, international analysts for leading Clarin, judged (5/23): "It is still possible that Soeharto's resignation is nothing but a short interval in Indonesia's continuous fall into anarchy.... (Some) economists...do not give a rupiah for what is still ahead. They distrust not only Indonesia but Asia as a region.... Perhaps the problem is related to the absence of (a) democratic government in Indonesia.... It is possible that the IMF and other institutions have already learned that more than healthy economic indicators are needed to guarantee the feasibility of any reform, and will act accordingly regarding Indonesia. But even though it is possible, since we are talking about the IMF, it is not likely."

BRAZIL: "Asian Crises"

Liberal Folha de Sao Paulo remarked (5/23): "The quick change (in Indonesia), although reducing tensions, hides or postpones open conflicts that continue. The issues are of an ethical, political, military, cultural and even familial nature. If Soeharto's replacement opts for a populist economic policy as a way to pacify (the people) and gain time, he will certainly gain the disapproval of the international community.

"The Asian crises seem to happen in waves, through periodic outbreaks at the end of which...everything seems to go back to square one."

JAMAICA: "Not The End Of Indonesia's Saga"

Regular columnist and university lecturer John Rapley observed in the moderate, influential Daily Gleaner (5/22): "The Indonesian government has become the next domino to get knocked over by the East Asian economic crisis.... The Indonesian ruling elite was caught between a rock and a hard place. It could not crush the students as the Chinese once did in Tiananmen Square.... Rather than buy time, President Soeharto only reinforced the students' perception that victory was in their grasp. And yesterday, victory came. Though it may not be the end of the saga, nor of Indonesia's ordeal."

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5/29/98

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