Military

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC

INDONESIA: "Xanana And Muladi"

Independent Media Indonesia contended (2/11): "The hero's treatment accorded to Xanana Gusmao, a criminal sentenced to 20 years in prison, is a bad legal precedent. What about other prisoners? What about Xanana's Acehnese counterparts, for instance, who were scalped for allegedly opposing the Republic? They are not treated as well as Xanana. We, including [Minister of Justice] Muladi, still manifest the syndrome of an oppressed society. Xanana, by virtue of his extraordinary foreign support, has been accepted as royalty while the Acehnese, branded as separatists for shouting 'Free Aceh,' continue to be regarded as criminals because they are Malays.... We found Muladi's presence in Xanana's new home yesterday inappropriate. It would even have been inappropriate for the [prison] director to greet Xanana, much less a minister such as Muladi. It seems we have lost not only our dignity but also our common sense."

"On Love For The Motherland"

The government-oriented, English-language Indonesian Observer commented (2/11): "It is astonishing how all of a sudden, pro-integration East Timorese have declared their love for Indonesia. Some have even gone so far as to accuse Indonesia of treachery after its declaration that it is ready to accede to East Timorese demands for secession, should the population opt for independence.... And it is also surprising to see that this group, who have built up successful careers as members of parliament or as officials in the civil service, are in quite a different class from the hungry and emaciated lot in East Timor who fight a losing battle against poverty. Are they speaking out of fear of losing their comfortable positions, or do they really love their Indonesian brothers?"

"Freedom For East Timor, Wrong Offer At Wrong Time"

The leading, independent Jakarta Post pointed out (2/10): "The recent option offered by the Habibie government...is in the first place a mistaken offer. It is a unilateral act, even if it is better than the policy of the previous government, for it ignores the wishes of the East Timorese themselves, which should be the first and uppermost consideration.... Indeed, a referendum would be a costly and complex affair for East Timor. Therefore, there needs to be close cooperation between Indonesia, Portugal, and the UN representing the international community right through from start to finish.... The option of independence for East Timor is in the second place being offered at the wrong time. The intention, therefore, is suspect. The Habibie government is lacking its legitimacy. This explains the crisis of confidence and credibility, and thus of leadership in this country.... The offer may also imply an admission of guilt for past mistakes or a failure in managing the process of the territory's integration with Indonesia or both.... Whatever the case, developments in East Timor since its integration with Indonesia are consequent upon the fact that the process has been violent and bloody from the start. Indonesia must be willing to pay the price of putting the record straight."

"Indonesia's Splendid Opportunity"

The government-oriented Indonesian Observer opined (2/10): "It is...encouraging that prominent leaders of the opposing camps have voiced their confidence in a dialogue as the only peaceful means to reach a solution. Fretilin leader Xanana Gusmao, former Governor Carascalao, Bishop Belo and others have expressed similar sentiments. For Indonesia, this is a splendid opportunity to show a sense of magnanimity and accept the final wish of the East Timorese, even if it may hurt nationalist feelings among the Indonesians who have always considered the integration an established fact."

"Still The East Timor Issue"

Nationalistic Merdeka held (2/8): "It is possible that foreign parties opposing East Timorese integration into Indonesia view the Alatas proposal to allow the MPR (People's Consultative Assembly) to make the East Timor decision as a bluff or blackmail toward the UN. What is clear, however, is that Indonesians have inherited a bitter legacy from the Soeharto regime. If East Timor's release is not to trigger national disintegration, it must be addressed."

"Election-Plus In East Timor"

Independent Berita Buana pointed out (2/5): "[It remains to be seen if] the MPR can reach the decision necessary to satisfy the true aspirations of the East Timorese. It is possible that the MPR decision will create new controversies, both internationally and among the East Timorese themselves. Supporting President Habibie's choice, referendum, is the only way to resolve the East Timor question without protracting it. The referendum will show the East Timorese' true hopes, whether broad autonomy or segregation from Indonesia. With the referendum, the international community, the UN, Portugal and the people of East Timor need no longer drag out this issue."

"Exercising Restraint In East Timor"

In the view of the leading, independent Jakarta Post (2/4): "Portugal and Indonesia, now that they have officially re-established low-level diplomatic representation, should work together and attempt to influence the opposing East Timorese factions which they have supported. Ultimately, however, the ones with the real clout are the East Timorese leaders. This is probably the real test for Bishop Belo and resistance leader Jose Ramos-Horta to live up to their 1996 Nobel Peace Prize titles. Now that the Indonesian government has recognized the role of jailed East Timor guerrilla leader, Xanana Gusmao, in the peace process, he too should use his formidable influence over his supporters to call for restraint. Indonesia should also begin disarming the militia that it had supported."

"The Alatas Concept For East Timor"

The government-oriented Indonesian Observer attested (2/4): "Within the politics of Indonesia, East Timor is a troubled and troublesome province. However, actions in that province should not serve as a catalyst to augment separatist movements in Aceh, Irian Jaya and perhaps other territories outside Java. We realize the sense of urgency with which [Foreign Minister] Alatas would like to solve this question. It is hoped indeed that the separatists among the East Timorese are able to understand the sincerity behind Indonesia's proposals, and that they will elect for further association as a respected member of the Indonesian family."

"Habibie, Xanana And East Timor"

Independent newsweekly Tempo opined (2/2): "[East Timorese leader] Xanana should welcome [Indonesia's offer]. At this historical moment, both Habibie and Xanana will repeat past mistakes if they don't look at long-term effects. East Timor and Indonesia will remain close geographically. Harmony between them is vital. If Habibie's decision to release East Timor is not accompanied by determination and a plan to secure the region after separation, the seeds of hostility will flourish. Therefore, in the near term, a democratic East Timor administration with broad autonomy should be established. A referendum involving a large sector of society should follow. Such a UN-supervised referendum can determine if and when East Timor opts for independence. The time frame is very important. Next year, Habibie may no longer be president. Megawati will likely enter the palace. If that happens, it will undermine Xanana's hopes as well as those of the East Timorese for freedom.

"In her latest speech, Megawati maintained that East Timor legitimately belongs to Indonesia and vowed to awaken the East Timorese people to defend the unity of Indonesia."

"Status Of East Timor"

Armed Forces' daily ABRI intoned (2/2): "We hope the government's East Timor solution will be considered objectively and not as a manner in which to achieve certain groups' political goals toward the government and the military (ABRI). Resolving the East Timor problem is a responsibility shared by all Indonesians. The East Timorese in particular must not be provoked by small groups who have opposed integration from the beginning."

"East Timor: Who Will Pay?"

Muslim intellectual Republika asserted (2/1): "Indonesia has paid a very high price for its foreign political mistake. Thousands of people were killed or crippled carrying out government military and civilian policies. We have wasted tens of billions of dollars to maintain the security and physical infrastructure of East Timor, causing jealousy among many provinces long loyal to Indonesia, such as Aceh.... It is appropriate for the UN, the United States, and Western countries--which have been hypocritical on this issue--to share in the high costs.... Besides the materiel, there are lives, emotions, mental anguish, international censure and the national pride of a country that yearns to be a great nation."

"Realistic Diplomacy"

Muslim intellectual Republika also held (2/1): "We believe that most Indonesian people are willing to release East Timor without feeling any loss of dignity. On the other hand, they are concerned about the plight of Indonesian citizens in East Timor. Indonesians on humanitarian missions in the provinces have often been mistreated.... The government has made a good decision and a brave step on the heels of other major decisions which will determine the future of the nation."

"The Future Of East Timor"

Financially oriented Bisnis Indonesia questioned (1/30): "Is this a good decision for Indonesia in general and for East Timor in particular? In terms of diplomatic strategy, it is absolutely right. But if it really materializes, it is not a wise decision. The East Timorese--the object of the decision--have never been asked for their opinion. If the first option, broad autonomy, fails, the East Timorese must accept a unilateral Indonesian decision without voicing their own opinion.... We hope all parties in East Timor display wisdom and statesmanship on behalf of the people. There is nothing wrong with further dialogues to determine East Timor's ideal future. Otherwise, there will be no winner on East Timor's political stage. What remains will be the plight of the people."

"ABRI Approves Of East Timor Independence"

The government-oriented Indonesian Observer said (1/30): "Commander-in-Chief of the Indonesian Armed Forces (ABRI) General Wiranto has described the granting of independence to East Timor as inevitable, which has eliminated feelings of anxiety that there will be considerable resistance within ABRI towards such a settlement. Wiranto said that this solution should be accepted by the whole nation and that ABRI will defend it.... From East Timor we let our views wander to Irian Jaya, Aceh, West Kalimantan and other troublesome spots, and ask ourselves whether these areas pose potential threats to the nationalist Pancasila (the official state philisophy) principle of unity in diversity.... Unless some flexibility is offered to the outer regions, the structure of the state could begin to crack in times of pressure. This should be avoided."

"Releasing East Timor Via An Election"

Independent Media Indonesia argued (1/30): "A general election will indicate whether or not the desire for an independent East Timor has widespread support among the Indonesian people or is merely a decision by the elite.... This can be measured through a general election. This is significant, keeping in mind that there has been a social crisis in East Timor. It is high time to make a decision with a broad social base. Now is the time to look down, because--like it or not--democracy is a bottom-up process, not the other way around."

"A Daring Decision"

Independent Media Indonesia asserted (1/29): "[Among the government's major resolutions is] offering an historic choice to parliament members...to release East Timor from this republic, should [the East Timorese people] reject broad autonomy. This is a fairly daring decision for Indonesia, after the republic has been involved in a covert war for 23 years which claimed lives, materiel, and the national image."

"An Honorable Exit"

The leading, independent Jakarta Post argued (1/29): "Unfortunately, [the government's] approach does not answer the one perplexing question that a referendum would have shed light on. That is, whether the majority of East Timorese people want to be part of Indonesia or not.... By not holding a referendum, either now or ten years down the line, we will never really find out the answer to what is undoubtedly the most important question about East Timor these last 23 years."

AUSTRALIA: "With Kudos Come Responsibilities"

The liberal Canberra Times declared (2/1): "The Australian Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, was quick to take some Australian credit for the dramatic change of stand by the Indonesian government over [East] Timor last week.... More likely, though, the change in the Australian position was only part of the reason for Indonesian change of heart. Once the stubborn President Soeharto was off the scene, leaders in Indonesia reviewed the equation.... It would be better if Indonesia engaged in a more constructive dialogue over East Timor rather than a petulant ultimatum to accept integrated autonomy or be cast adrift. But that is too much to hope for, and given that is the case, Australia's responsibility is that much greater."

JAPAN: "East Timor Problem Must Be Resolved Early"

Business-oriented Nihon Keizai outlined this editorial view (2/10): "There are increasing signs...that [Indonesia] is ready to permit the independence of East Timor. Behind Indonesia's abrupt switch from firm opposition to near approval of East Timor's independence is criticism from the international community. Also, the unsuccessful economic development of the former Portuguese colony has added a huge financial burden to the Habibie government.... But isn't it more than a little irresponsible for Indonesia to decide to suddenly sever ties with East Timor, which has become a huge economic burden on Jakarta?

"With no prospective business or industrial base available in East Timor, this territory cannot go it alone even if it becomes independent immediately. Besides East Timor, there are other regions that are seeking independence from Indonesia--a country consisting of tens of thousands of islands. Jakarta's irresponsible policy toward these regions can only cause domestic chaos, disrupting Indonesia's national unity."

PHILIPPINES: "A Pragmatic Decision"

The independent Manila Times featured this editorial view (1/31): "Indonesia at this stage has few options available in tackling the 23-year-old conflict. Wracked by financial crisis, it can ill afford to spend more in the territory. The deposed Soeharto government allocated millions for schools, infrastructure and even a shrine for the territory's predominantly Catholic populace. That has not won the conflict for Jakarta. The sad fact staring [at] Indonesia is that East Timor could bleed the country dry."

THAILAND: "Common Sense Enters Debate On Territory"

The lead editorial of the independent, English-language Nation contended (1/29): "Indonesian President B.J. Habibie's willingness to discuss possible independence for East Timor is an act of bravery and reflects his political common sense. Although there are various suspicious aspects to Indonesia's motive, time will tell whether the government is sincere."

EUROPE

PORTUGAL: "Time Is On Our Side"

Columnist Luís Salgado Matos observed in center-left O Publico (2/8): "A plebiscite in Timor [would set] a precedent for other irredentist regions. A solution negotiated with Portugal within the context of the UN could not be generalized [to other regions] and would be of help. The Indonesian power elite knows that the return of Portugal would guarantee the moderation of the Timorese, in whose rationality it cannot confide.... We only need to reaffirm our disposition to act as an administrative power within the context of the UN.... Time is on our side."

"A Clean Conscience At A Minimum Price"

Center-left O Publico editor Francisco Sarsfield Cabral opined (2/8): "All of a sudden, we notice that we don't know much about what is happening there--in Indonesia and Timor--despite of the fact that the Timorese cause has been a priority in the Portuguese media for a long time. I would say that our ignorance is due in large measure precisely to that priority. The Portuguese media had the good sense not to let Timor fall into obscurity, but treated it almost as they would a campaign, discarding [both] information and analysis. The result: We must conclude, now, that what we know about Timor is extremely partial, in the dual sense of being limited and of reflecting just one position.... We must admit that hoisting the Timorese flag against Indonesia gives us a clean conscience at a minimum cost, helping us all the while to forget the tragedies that befell our other former colonies, such as Angola, Guinea [Bissau], and (at least until recently) Mozambique, one of the poorest countries of the world. But the time has come to set aside that cheap good conscience and to face up to, in a serious way, the complexity of the situation in Timor."

"A Decisive Turning Point"

Former Foreign Minister Francisco Durao Barroso opined in center-left weekly Expresso (2/6): "For the first time since the invasion of the territory.... Indonesian authorities acknowledge the independence of East Timor. Jakarta, take note, continues to refuse a referendum and defends as the best solution an 'enlarged autonomy.' But this is [also] a radical departure, [since it] recognizes as a hypothesis the independence of the territory. We find ourselves, then, at a decisive turning point.... One must not exclude the possibility that at least some sectors of the Indonesian regime are attempting to transform Timor into a sort of 'vaccine' against other secessionist movements in that immensely vast, diverse and populous country.

"The news about the arming of pro-integrationist Timorese civilians is worrisome and should be analyzed in the light of an eventual attempt to 'demonstrate,' by the creation of a situation of chaos and even civil war, that independence is not viable--either in Timor or any other part of Indonesia. It seems useful...that the European Union, the United States, and other powers keep close track of this process, in order to make Indonesia see the advantages it could gain from a solution of self-determination, as well as the consequences that would follow from a badly managed transition on the part of Jakarta. Personally, I believe that self-determination in East Timor has reached, on the diplomatic plane, the point of irreversibility. After the latest positions taken by the Indonesian government, it is unrealistic to think that the process could be reversed, except in a situation--which would in any event only be temporary--of a radical 'involution' toward an absolute authoritarian regime."

"No Going Back"

Center-left weekly Expresso's deputy director Fernando Madrinha judged in an editorial (2/6): "It is clear that initiative is on the side of Jakarta. And the experience of the past 23 years counsels maximum caution, because what today appears to be a commitment--or, at the minimum, a genuine Indonesian proposal--tomorrow could turn out to be worthless. But the truth is that the Habibie regime has already gone too far to reverse itself totally. And if, on the one hand, it gives signs of confiding in a solution that is most convenient for itself--tempering the will of the Timorese through force of fear, or even provoking a bloodbath that would permit it to try justifying once again the occupation in the eyes of the international community--on the other hand, it is reaching the point where it has no margin to go back on its promise."

BRITAIN: "Habibie's Task"

The independent weekly Economist told its readers (1/30): "Much depends on the success of the [upcoming] elections [in Indonesia.] If it is judged to be fraudulent, Indonesia's democrats, their hopes now raised, would turn bitter. Violence might break out once more, and perhaps even more explosively than before.... It is not inconceivable that Indonesia could break up, and bloodily, which might launch an armada of boat people seeking refuge in the Philippines, Malaysia or Australia. In any event, some parts seem bound to go their own way. The government said this week, in a major departure, that it would consider independence for East Timor..... The unique manner in which the distant territory came to be part of Indonesia should mean that its departure, if it really comes, will set no precedent. But that cannot be guaranteed.... Some sort of federal arrangement...is likely to be the only way of holding the country together.... The only certainty is that Mr. Habibie has little time left to build the confidence in a democratic future that his country so desperately needs."

GERMANY: "East Timor--A Divided Province"

Left-of-center weekly Die Zeit of Hamburg judged (2/4): "Indonesia's President Habibie, who wants to be more than a transitional president, seems to have understood that he cannot win but can only lose with East Timor. The violent oppression of a freedom movement whose representatives were awarded with the Nobel Peace Prize is greatly damaging Indonesia's reputation. Now at the nadir of the economic crisis, the country is dependent on the good will of the international community. Does this mean that the East Timorese have a right to cheer? The first reactions show how divided the country really is with respect to the question of independence. If we left the small and very poor people to themselves, a new civil war would be looming. The 'pebble in Indonesia's shoe' (as Foreign Minister Ali Alatas said) could soon cause pain in the international community as a whole."

"An Opportunity For Indonesia"

Brigitte Spitz contended in left-of-center Frankfurter Rundschau (2/5): "The reported change of course in Indonesia's policy is not surprising. Indonesia is faced with its most serious economic crisis of the past 30 years. While the first signs of economic recovery are becoming visible in neighboring countries, Indonesia's economy is still on the decline, rice is becoming scarce, and the farmers no longer have anything to harvest. The country urgently needs international assistance.... And when it comes to international talks about financial assistance, strains on Indonesia's international reputation are not good starting points. And since...President Habibie so far has had nothing positive to report since taking office, a few positive headlines on East Timor are welcome. This is why the latest announcement should be taken with a grain of salt....

"The Indonesian elite fears that it will lose its supremacy everywhere in the country. The separatist movements in Aceh or Sumatra are a reason why the Indonesian government is trying to prevent at all costs a referendum about the future of East Timor. Jakarta is afraid that if East Timor votes on its future status, other regions could demand the same. But such a referendum would also offer Indonesia an opportunity. A reasonably negotiated agreement would be a signal to the secessionist provinces that the central government has a clear will to resolve regional problems. This could prevent the explosive disintegration of the vast empire.... In order to take advantage of this opportunity, the Jakarta government needs the friendly pressure of nations to which it has close relations."

"Away From Jakarta"

An editorial by Petra Kolonko in right-of-center Frankfurter Allgemeine had this to say (1/28): "A change of power was necessary in Indonesia before the status of East Timor could be put up for discussion again. The new Habibie government has now indicated for the first time that Indonesia would accept East Timor's independence if the people want it. There is no question that they want this independence, since the Indonesian rulers have never made themselves popular. But for Indonesia, East Timor's independence could speed up decentralization tendencies. There are other provinces that are striving for greater independence from Jakarta."

"Indonesia's Ignorance Is Disappearing"

Olaf Jahn argued in an editorial in right-of-center Die Welt of Berlin (1/28): "Indonesia's government is willing to grant East Timor total independence if necessary. This news is a political bombshell.... In contrast to former president Soeharto, new President Habibie is weak and struggling for political acceptance. Unrest throughout the country is too much for his military and police forces, the country is poor, and the coffers are empty. In this situation, it is hardly possible to explain to the Indonesian people why so much money needs to be transferred to this obstinate province....

"Just in time just before the parliamentary elections in June, the government has now demonstrated its new openness. So far, so good. But the champagne should not be opened yet, as a diplomat said. Too many questions remain open. How will the military and the various political parties react?... If the Indonesian army leaves the province overnight, it is very likely that paramilitary forces of separatists and advocates of the status quo will determine events. Thousands of old accounts need to be settled between 'collaborators' and guerrilla forces. Without a transitional period, there is the threat of murderous fighting. The idea that the East Timorese have a chance for self-determination makes us happy. But there is great distrust and skepticism on the part of many independence fighters."

"Divorce From East Timor"

Left-of-center Berliner Zeitung featured this editorial by Martina Tkalec (1/28): "With surprising coolness, Indonesia's information minister announced sensational news: Jakarta would be willing to grant East Timor independence, if the majority of people do not consider the status of autonomy to be satisfactory.... Indonesia's treatment of East Timor has ruined Indonesia's reputation in the world. But the armed forces above all fear that any kind of compromise on this question would be a disgrace for the army. East Timor's independence could turn out to be the liberation from a great burden and could prevent the outbreak of a protracted civil war. But the will to come to a lasting solution will become really credible only if Jakarta releases the imprisoned hero from East Timor, Xanana Gusmao."

"A Minor Political Miracle"

Right-of-center Der Tagesspiegel of Berlin indicated (1/28): "For the first time, Indonesia has signaled its willingness to grant East Timor independence. The fact that this country is small and rather insignificant strategically also has advantages: The political and real costs of an endless occupation are not worth the trouble for Indonesia. Indonesia's decision was the result of the same sort of cost-benefit analysis that also brought about the end to European colonialism."

SPAIN: "Hope For East Timor"

Liberal El Pais opined (2/12): "Jakarta's new attitude, as evidenced by the election promises made by Prime Minister Habibie to the territory that for 32 years was the personal fief of his ex-boss, Soeharto, kindles hope for the former Portuguese colony. But many doubt the Indonesian government's good intentions in the face of decisive parliamentary and presidential elections this year. Torture and killing remain the order of the day in East Timor, where the army has unleashed a powerful local militia to terrorize anyone who opposes the invaders' will. A gradual transition would probably better serve the interests of the suffering Timorese than a potentially inflammatory self-determination referendum, although one should eventually be held, but under international supervision and after the army has been withdrawn."

"East Timor's Future"

Barcelona's centrist La Vanguardia emphasized (1/29): "Jakarta's surprise move results from the weakening of the government after Soeharto's fall last May as well as its need to end international isolation in order to overcome its economic crisis, plus pressure by the United States. This is the first time a solution to a situation which violates international law as well as human rights may be in sight."

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2/12/99

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