Military

AMBUA, SOEHARTO TRIAL, PRESIDENTIAL POWER-SHARING

Editors in East Asia and elsewhere, examining recent developments in Indonesia, found little cause to celebrate the first anniversary of East Timor's vote for independence. Marring the occasion were the deaths last week of three UN aid workers in Atambua, West Timor, followed by reports of the killing of 11 more people over the weekend. The deaths, widely attributed to militias opposed to East Timor's independence, were played against the backdrop of the perceived "failure" of efforts to bring former President Soeharto to trial on corruption charges, and the view that President Wahid has made "little serious effort" to explain the power-sharing arrangement--announced in late August--with his vice president, Megawati Sukarnoputri. Analysts also judged that the reshuffling of his cabinet "made little political sense" and "did not augur well" for the future of his government. In Indonesia, nearly all dailies saw the Atambua killings as a source of "national disgrace," especially since they occurred while Mr. Wahid was attending the UN Millennium Summit, and called on the government to investigate the murders. Highlights follow:

INDONESIA--CONFRONTING 'SHAME' AND THE DEMANDS OF 'JUSTICE': Leading dailies underscored Indonesia's public "embarrassment" on the world stage in the aftermath of the Atambua killings, stating that "the unanimously passed UN resolution...shows that Indonesia is left alone and without allies." Expressing a common view, the independent Jakarta Post averred: "The government cannot absolve itself of responsibility." "Surely the Indonesian government cannot remain idle if it does not want to tarnish its reputation even more," seconded leading, independent Kompas, adding: "Firm action against the...militias [is] the responsibility of the government and the authorities." Papers likewise saw the trial of former President Soeharto as an important test for Indonesia's image, but offered little hope that justice would be served. Some, addressing the question of whether or not Mr. Soeharto is physically fit to stand trial, suggested that the former dictator should be tried in absentia. In scant available commentary on Mr. Wahid's power-sharing arrangement, editorialists called on Ms. Megawati to assume "her legitimate function" and "prove her ability" as a leader.

ELSEWHERE, ATAMBUA CONDEMNED, TIMOR, WAHID PRESIDENCY ASSESSED: Dailies in Australia, whose troops led the UN-sponsored action to quell the post-referendum violence in East Timor a year ago, were among the most strident critics of the Atambua slayings. Joining voices elsewhere in the region and in Europe, Sydney's national, conservative Australian insisted that last week's violence "refreshes doubts about the seriousness--or the capability--of Indonesia's leaders to eradicate militia activity" in West Timor. Most writers saw the "unchecked" militia activity as boding ill for the future of East Timor, but they hoped that increased international pressure might force the Indonesian government to disarm the "murderous bullies." Singapore's pro-government paper took a dim view of Mr. Wahid's cabinet reshuffling, arguing that by "choosing only his own men," the Indonesian leader was denying the country "a second chance at national reconciliation."

EDITOR: Kathleen J. Brahney

EDITOR'S NOTE: This survey is based on 59 reports from 12 countries, August 23 - September 11. Editorial excerpts are grouped by region; editorials from each country are listed from the most recent date.

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC

INDONESIA: "Government, Indonesia Tested By World Reactions Toward Atambua"

Leading, independent Kompas told its readers (9/11): "Neither we nor the government have ever been more embarrassed than we are now. The unanimously passed UN resolution...shows that Indonesia is left alone and without allies.... [Government] action cannot be delayed. The government must clearly disclose the Atambua attack culprits. It must be made clear who are the killers of Olivio Moruk."

"Conspiracy Theories"

The independent, English-language Indonesian Observer maintained (9/11): "It has been quite an eye-opener for us that the main agenda topics at the Millennium Summit had to be changed because of the senseless killings of UN personnel in Atambua. It would seem that we continue to perpetuate tragic errors when it comes to East Timor.... Some say our current problems have arisen because of our continuing love for that troubled region. We hope the world will forgive us for that."

"No Anti-U.S. Feelings"

The independent Indonesian Observer also held (9/11): "With reference to Ambassador Gelbard's statement...we would like to comment that while his observations on conditions in Indonesia may have been accurate, his statement that Indonesia is anti-America is as inaccurate as it is unfortunate. Statements claiming the existence of anti-American sentiments remind us of the old Cold War period in which the democratic way of thinking of the free world was in conflict with the communist ideology of the socialist countries.... To put the record straight, we would like to stress the fact that the relationship between Jakarta and Washington remains on the best of terms."

"Impact Of Atambua Incident"

Independent afternoon Suara Pembaruan emphasized (9/9): "The Atambua incident prompts us to be aware that the government must investigate the murders of the three UN officials. All the parties concerned--including the government, UNTAET and the numerous East Timor organizations--must seek a solution. The refugees must be removed from the current sites to ascertain who wishes to join Indonesia and who wants to return to East Timor."

"A National Disgrace"

The leading, independent, English-language Jakarta Post observed (9/8): "The barbaric attacks on the UN workers in Atambua took place on the same day that the world body opened its Millennium Summit in New York and, naturally, they brought swift international condemnation.... The government cannot absolve [itself of] responsibility.. Not only did the attack happen on Indonesian soil, it was also perpetrated by pro-Indonesian East Timorese militias that were created, funded, trained, armed and sustained by the Indonesian military.... A promise to investigate and punish the murderers will also be unconvincing, given that Indonesia has not even begun trying those responsible for the mayhem in East Timor last year.... Another promise, this time to prosecute the Atambua killers, would at best be welcomed with cynicism by the international community.... Surely the government must now realize that the shame and disgrace which the Atambua killings have brought on the entire nation is simply too high a price to pay to shield the dozens of murderous generals, colonels, lieutenants and militia leaders from having to appear in court."

"Atambua Tragedy Disgraces Indonesia In International Arena"

Leading, independent Kompas judged (9/8): "To any country, the presence of refugees often adds to the country's economic and security problems. Cultural differences with local people have the potential to create tension and mutual suspicion. No less complicated are problems in providing food and other basic needs for thousands of refugees.... Such issues may have surfaced in Atambua. The heavy burdens the refugees must bear, probably coupled with inadequate management, could suddenly turn a simple matter into a major issue. This is what is happening in Atambua.... Surely the Indonesian government cannot remain idle if it does not want to tarnish its reputation even more in the international community. Serious management of refugees and firm action against the armed militias are the responsibilities of the government and the authorities."

"Atambua Incident"

Islamic-oriented Pelita asserted (9/8): "As with cases in the past, it is surprising that such anarchy occurred precisely when President Wahid was on an overseas trip. What is really happening? Whether there is an international conspiracy deliberately designed to put Indonesia in trouble, or whether it was due to our carelessness is still too early to tell. What is certain, however, is that the numerous cases of unrest and anarchy thus far have given us a basis to understand the need to take firm action against the culprits. Perhaps the Atambua incident would not have happened if we had anticipated it promptly.. Quick, stern action is necessary to prevent the situation from getting worse; at least to impede parties both at home and outside the country from plotting a political conspiracy deliberately aimed at cornering the Indonesian president as well as damaging Indonesia's reputation in the eyes of the world. The Atambua incident truly has made us sad, disheartened and embarrassed, too."

"We Are Not A Nation Of Murderers"

Independent Media Indonesia insisted (9/8): "We truly deplore the incident. Yet, we also demand international responsibility. The East Timor of the present is not a sin of Indonesia. Portugal, which had neglected [East Timor]...has never shown accountability. Xanana Gusmao, Ramos Horta, and other leaders are inclined to abandon their responsibilities for these develelopments. Now that they...have succeeded in winning international popularity, there are no initiatives or concrete actions from them.... We strongly reject all the charges that have cornered us. This is our answer: Indonesia loves peace. We are not a murderous nation."

"Political Inheritance"

The independent, English-language Indonesian Observer stressed (9/8): "What happened in Atambua can be categorized as a political symptom, a result of the political decision to permit the secession of the former province.... We support the condemnation of the killing expressed by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and President Clinton. No solution can be reached if the process and or the steps taken to reach it are marked by killings and other acts of violence. The Atambua incident indicates the hand of politics at work because the killing took place during the visit of Gus Dur to a number of foreign countries."

"Political Stability Basis For National Security"

The independent, English-language Indonesian Observer noted (9/7): "In his new position as coordinating minister for security and political affairs, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has a tough job in plugging the holes which allow infiltrators to cause trouble in this country.... U.S. Ambassador Robert Gelbard has expressed his concern when talking to the Washington Post [sic]. He said foreign terrorists have infiltrated Indonesia. He must know what he is talking about, because his country is forever engaged in rooting out terrorism in all parts of the world.... Knowing that Yudhoyono has made it his special task to set up a scheme of maximum security for the Indonesian archipelago, we hope that he will succeed to improve the security system, especially in such sensitive areas as Aceh, Ambon and Irian Jaya.... If we manage to preserve our political unity, it will help us improve the security of Indonesia."

"The Sad Truth"

The independent, English-language Indonesian Observer commented (9/6): "If the government thinks the U.S. ambassador has no right to discuss Indonesian affairs with a U.S. newspaper...it would be the task of foreign minister to summon him.... Indonesians have never learned to accept the truth and are quickly hurt by unfavorable opinion.... What Ambassador Gelbard told the Washington Times was nothing but the truth.... This is the sad truth about our beloved Indonesia, and we should not feel too quickly offended because newspapers reveal these less-than-pleasant facts. While House Speaker Akbar Tanjung might like to advise Foreign Minister Alwi Shihab to reprimand the ambassador...we would like to remind him that he has no right to tell the ambassador what and what not to do."

"What Lesson To Learn From Soeharto Trial?"

Leading, independent Kompas observed (9/2): "We are left in the dark as to what the court will do next. It appears that [Soeharto] is permanently ill, both physically and mentally .... From Soeharto's trial, we can learn many things. Besides...allowing justice to prevail, we want to learn a historical lesson from the trial. Whether or not we successfully learn our lesson will determine Indonesia's path in the future, to be a respected nation or one that is mocked--as is the case at present."

"Symbol Of Justice"

The leading, independent, English-language Jakarta Post declared (9/2): "The government's determination to go through the motions [of trying Soeharto] has put the process on a dangerous course, with the possibility of backfiring. If Soeharto is genuinely sick--physically and mentally--as his lawyers claim, dragging him to court could turn the tables and the government could be portrayed as the bad guy. Under such conditions, Soeharto will never receive the fair trial to which he is entitled like any other citizen. Insisting that he turns up for the trial in whatever condition could then be perceived more as a travesty of justice. The matter is now is in the hands of the court, so we have to let it run its full course. But this episode has taught us a valuable lesson--that justice and the rule of law cannot be served by simply turning them into symbolic playthings."

"Cleaning Up The National Image"

Independent Media Indonesia expressed these sentiments (9/2): "We hope that the announcement identifying the East Timor suspects will lead to a tribunal. When all the suspects have been punished, the human rights violations in East Timor would be seen as resolved. The international community would stop glaring at us on this particular issue. And, we would be appreciated as a nation that understands true human rights. In truth, we are tired of receiving menacing looks from the international community.... We are embarrassed because we are constantly being cornered and linked with countries considered barbaric in the human rights arena.... [The government] should deal with the case, not only because of the international criticism, but...out of an appreciation that human values must be loftily upheld."

"Essence Of Soeharto Case Should Not Be Manipulated"

Golkar Party's Suara Karya asserted (9/2): "Leaders often tell the public to abide by the law and act by the existing rules. In fact, giving advice is easier than executing the law, especially when it involves leading decisionmakers.... In the Soeharto case, the presiding judge is expected to act wisely in accordance with his authority to reveal the truth by establishing who is guilty and not guilty, and not to let himself succumb to practical politics by allowing the case [outcome] to turn on technicalities."

"Soeharto Trial Dilemma"

Independent Suara Pembaruan advised (9/1): "If his health condition continues to be the reason for delay in the courts, Soeharto, as defendant, should come under the care and responsibility of the attorney general. This would prevent delay in the legal process, while offering Soeharto and his family a legal outcome for the corruption charges. It is possible that it would restore public confidence if Soeharto shows up in the court and the public appreciates the extent of his poor health and sees him unable to respond to charges due to his illness."

"Time For Mega To Prove Herself"

Independent Media Indonesia intoned (9/1): "The only power [Vice President] Megawati has over President Gus Dur is that she is the leader of the political party that won the majority of the election votes.... The task-sharing between Gus Dur and Megawati...is a nod to the fact that Megawati has a legitimate function.... The most fundamental question is whether a leader has to be very smart. If he or she is able to lead a party which wins majority of the votes, can't this be seen as a strong point? If Mega is weak...can't we help her? Now is time to shore up Megawati's leadership shortcomings. It is time that Megawati prove her ability."

"A Test For Justice"

In the view of Muslim, intellectual Republika (9/1): "As the public had anticipated, the attorney general office's actions serve only to meet a political target. No matter what, the attorney general and the government have brought the Soeharto case to court. Period. [What happens] if the trial is nothing more than a political ploy? In Thursday's court, the attorney general asked an independent team of doctors to check on Soeharto's condition, but this is again nothing more than a strategy by the attorney general to trick the public as if he were persistent in dragging Soeharto to court. Like it or not, what is worth recognizing is that Soeharto's trial has become a burden of the government as well as a test of justice."

"Regional Assistance To Prepare State Of Timor Loro Sae"

Leading, independent Kompas told its readers (9/1): "It is quite clear that East Timor requires both international and regional assistance. The next five years will be the most critical period. If during this period there is a failure to properly manage it, East Timor could plausibly again fall into serious straits. The seeds of disintegration have not gone away. Cultural and generation gaps still haunt the region. It is exactly at this point that regional powers like Indonesia with its ASEAN, and Australia with its Pacific neighbors, can make positive contributions. In any case, dialogue would be the key for people in Timor Loro Sae to make their nation self-reliant."

"Playing For Time"

The independent, English-language Indonesian Observer concluded (9/1): "It is all too obvious that Soeharto's legal team has been using the health problems of their client to the maximum.... While there has been an outburst of anger that the judges let Soeharto off the hook, others are of the opinion that they have maintained the traditional Indonesian attitude of reasonability on this matter. We must respect the feelings of those in poor health. On the other hand, the judges must not lose sight of the possibility that they may lose credibility in the eyes of the public. Some would even venture to suggest that this whole thing is nothing but a hoax."

"Trial Of Former President Soeharto; The Awaited Day?"

Leading, independent Kompas pondered (8/31): "At the outset, there has been controversy over how find a solution [to the problem of trying a former president]. The U.S. way? After President Ford replaced President Nixon...the first thing he did was pardon his predecessor. It was also the case with President Putin, who immediately declared former President Yeltsin immune from legal charges upon assuming office.... Understanding that Soeharto's treatment must include both legal and political elements would help us exercise wisdom and restraint."

"Taking The Respectable Path"

Independent Media Indonesia asserted (8/31): "Whether Soeharto is present for trial is immaterial. The trial must proceed in absentia. The court would not need to waste time and legal expertise answering questions about Soeharto's health condition."

"Soeharto Trial A Test Of Law Enforcement"

Golkar Party's Suara Karya claimed (8/31): "If the trial were merely a political show, it would be a funny one indeed. Soeharto's trial will be a meaningful historical record only if it is fair--as an impartial piece of law enforcement and a positive precedent in the effort to eradicate corruption. We'll see if that can happen."

"Soeharto Trial Today?"

Islamic-oriented Pelita advised (8/31): "Whatever the decision, let us be patient. Only a true court, free of political influence, can make this event a historical one. Otherwise, Indonesia will be remembered as a ruthless country in which the law is played as a mere political tool."

"A Fair Trial For Soeharto"

The leading, independent, English-language Jakarta Post held (8/29): "One aspect that could stand in the way of a trial is Soeharto's ill health.... Given the circumstances, Gus Dur has promised to pardon the ex-president should he be found guilty in court.... What many people in Indonesia do not seem to realize, though, is that, with the Soeharto case, the principle of superiority of the law in Indonesia will also be put on trial. In other words, Soeharto's trial will be a test case for the judiciary in this country precisely because of the heated controversies and emotions that surround it. How Soeharto is treated will determine whether or not true justice prevails in this country. Let no one, therefore, try to influence the court proceedings in any way.... After all, justice delayed is democracy denied, as the late American Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy once said. Still, fairness is what justice is really about."

"A Heartbeat Away"

The independent, English-language Indonesian Observer noted (8/28): "There is reason to believe that Gus Dur was not sincere in the transfer of power.... Although Megawati was given the title of vice president, she actually moves like a shadow near Gus Dur, with no prescribed duties.... It is quite painful to see Megawati flashing bright smiles left and right, while everyone knows that her heart must surely be ready to scream at the injustice that she actually has less authority than junior ministers in the cabinet. Megawati owes it to her grassroots supporters, who campaigned to make her president, to bring forward once again, the question of whether she will be next in line to the president, if, for one reason or another, Gus Dur is no longer able to carry out his duties as president Other countries, like the United States, are quite clear on this issue. Under the Constitution of the United States, the vice president is only a heartbeat away from the presidency."

"West Timor"

The independent, English-language Indonesian Observer noted (8/26): "It seems that a border war is developing.... Does the government know the details of its military activities on the borders?... It is time the government put an end to its activities. The game is over, and there is no reason to pretend that there are guerrilla fighters seeking to block the UN troops from entering West Timor. The Indonesian government should not add extra troubles to the ones it already has to shoulder. The way we handle the problem of the ghost army along the borders will decide how far other countries, committed to the ideals of the UN, will help Indonesia put a stop to the process of disintegration. Orders should go out at once to the former militias to disband."

"Soeharto Trial And Hope Of Reconciliation"

Independent Berita Buana told its readers (8/24): "Bringing Soeharto to court would pave the way to the longed-for national reconciliation. Reconciliation will be difficult to achieve if Soeharto is not tried. This is not a retaliation. We all know that the country's devastation was not due to Soeharto's personal wrongdoing, but collective misdeeds.... We do not oppose Gus Dur's affirmation that he will pardon Soeharto.... It is worth following South Korea's example."

AUSTRALIA: "Wahid Must Have Courage"

Sydney's national, business-oriented Australian Financial Review had this editorial (9/8): "The two changes needed are clear, if still very complex. Indonesia needs to convict some people of crimes relating to the violence that surrounded East Timor's move to independence. And it needs to accept the assistance of the UN peacekeepers in closing the refugee camps in West Timor."

"Jakarta Weak In Militia Crackdown"

An editorial in Sydney's conservative, national Australian held (9/8): "Indonesia's leaders have been promising for months that West Timor is under control and enough is being done to keep it that way. Yet it is now beyond doubt that any efforts that have been made to control the militia activity have failed. Urgent and decisive action is needed.... With the camps now empty of UN workers, a new humanitarian crisis may be looming; refugees are again vulnerable to the militias and to the threat of starvation and disease. This week's violence refreshes doubts about the seriousness--or the capability--of Indonesia's leaders to eradicate militia activity."

"No Refuge For Murderous Militias"

Foreign Editor Greg Sheridan argued in the conservative, national Australian (9/8): "If this dreadful business is to have any redeeming feature, it may be that the presence of Indonesia's President Wahid and his Foreign Minister Alwi Shihab in New York, where they have been exposed to a high level of international outrage, will make fixing the situation in West Timor a much more urgent priority for Jakarta.... One of the UN workers killed was an American citizen. Sentiment in sections of the U.S. State Department is strong for moving quickly, from urging the Indonesians to do more to threatening them, presumably with the withholding of IMF money, if they don't do much better very quickly."

"West Timor Tragedy"

An editorial in the leading, liberal Sydney Morning Herald contended (9/8): "This is Indonesia's moment of truth. There are many professional units and officers in the armed forces who must be thoroughly fed up at being seen to be either incompetent or unwilling to face up to murderous bullies. They, and many other thoughtful, decent Indonesians, must also know that if West Timor descends further into chaos, threatening humanitarian disaster, there will inevitably be pressure for UN intervention."

"Timor One Year On"

An editorial in the leading, liberal Sydney Morning Herald judged (8/31): "The birth of a new, independent East Timor cannot be separated from the birth of a new, democratic Indonesia, something which is proving just as difficult in its way. International calls for Indonesian action to disarm and disband the militia in West Timor and to close the camps from which the militia operate are not necessarily the most pressing matters to be dealt with, from the perspective of President Abdurrahman Wahid and the uneasy coalition of political forces at the head of the Indonesian government. But Indonesia must be pressed. The UN and the United States are urging it to act, as are Australia and New Zealand and the other countries which have sent troops as part of the UN peacekeeping force, or whose citizens are part of the international aid effort to rebuild East Timor."

"The Year Of Living Dangerously"

Melbourne's liberal Age (8/30) marked the anniversary of East Timor's independence vote: "The people of East Timor must be deserted again, difficult although it will be both to maintain this new relationship and to attempt the necessary task of repairing the broken friendship with Indonesia. The restoration of that friendship need not be threatened by the separatist movements that grow ever stronger in parts of Indonesia, such as West Papua and Aceh.... Australia needs to be a good neighbor to the peoples both of Indonesia and East Timor; it can best do so by not calling for the redrawing of borders, but by urging that they pursue democratic solutions to their problems."

"Hope Attends Nation's Birth"

An editorial in the national, business-oriented Australian Financial Review read (8/30): "East Timor celebrates its first year of independence today in a more positive climate than almost anyone could have predicted as violence devastated the nascent country after last year's plebiscite.... Even if the most positive outlook prevails after the UN mission starts withdrawing in little more than a year, Timor will remain dependent on Australian military and economic aid for years.... Its independence will not be secure until there is a more harmonious relationship between the three Timor Sea countries. Indonesia will have to change the most to achieve that harmony, but Australia will also have to work on its relations with Indonesia if it wants to close the books on its Timor tragedy."

"Ousting Dark Forces Behind West Timor Militia"

Don Greenlees commented from Dili in the national, conservative Australian (8/30): "After 12 months of unfulfilled promises, Jakarta takes umbrage at international criticism and still drags its feet over the disarmament of militias and resettling the refugees. For much of that time the diplomatic pressure has been intense.... The answer to the militias is likely to be determined by the political game being played between Wahid and his opponents.... In this power struggle Wahid needs foreign support. Isolating him diplomatically could strengthen those who oppose a more just and democratic Indonesia."

"Rare But Risky Lapse By Leader"

Foreign editor Greg Sheridan observed in the national, conservative Australian (8/29): "You have to wonder what Xanana Gusmao has been taking in his coffee.... This talk now of chasing militia back into West Timor and defeating them there is the height of folly.... Moreover, Gusmao is not the legitimate military authority in East Timor. The UN provides that authority and it is up to Australians and others of the UN force to decide how they police the border.... The way to address the problem is to engage the Jakarta leadership more strongly so that it acts against the recalcitrant TNI elements more decisively. For an East Timorese leader to threaten to wage a military campaign on Indonesian territory is very worrying."

"Wahid Gambles With New Team"

An editorial in the natinal, business-oriented Australian Financial Review noted (8/28): "[Mr. Abdurrahman Wahid's] margin for survival is razor thin and dependent on an increasingly narrow political base. The reaction to the new government team has been decidedly negative.... He has made little serious effort to explain how the cabinet will work despite the recent demands from the country's highest parliamentary institution for a more accountable government in which Vice President Megawati Sukarnoputri would play a key executive role."

"Wahid's Power Play"

According to the leading, liberal Sydney Morning Herald (8/25): "Initial reactions to the cabinet reshuffle...announced on Wednesday ranged from the cautious to the hostile. The most notable and potentially worrying was that of Vice President Megawati Sukarnoputri, who was conspicuously absent when Mr. Wahid unveiled his new, reduced ministerial line-up.... The clear message is that, whatever the structural and cosmetic changes, the wily but erratic Mr. Wahid is not in the business of surrendering the reality of power.... The new less unwieldy administration deserves time to show whether it can be more effective than the old one in coping with Indonesia's immense economic problems and the challenge of communal conflict and separatism in some parts of the country. Despite declarations of good intent by President Wahid, there is not much cause for optimism on the latter score."

"Politics Comes To Dili"

An editorial in the leading, liberal Sydney Morning Herald stressed (8/23): "Now almost a year after the vote for independence...the freedom fighters want to become politicians.... Mr. Gusmao is a crucial figure. At Sunday's [25th anniversary of Falantil] ceremony, he...made a thinly veiled attack on UNTAET for not allowing Falantil a greater role in countering incursions by pro-Indonesian militia...across the border with West Timor.... Mr. Gusmao perhaps will be called upon more to restrain and transform the Falantil than to urge a greater role for it, at least for some time.... The last thing East Timor needs as it struggles with the task of national reconstruction is a renewal of fighting between Falantil and the pro-Indonesian militias."

JAPAN: "Many Difficulties Lie Ahead Of East Timor's Independence"

Top-circulation, moderate Yomiuri's editorial pointed out (8/30): "Although the deployment of a powerful UN peacekeeping force has restored peace to East Timor, officials are facing many difficulties building a new nation.... Hundreds of thousands of East Timorese refugees who sought refuge in West Timor, fleeing the post-plebiscite crackdowns by armed militias, are returning. Some of the returning refugees are reportedly armed militias. UN officials are concerned that their return to East Timor would cause social unrest again. And to make matters still more complicated, East Timorese are mostly impoverished and are relying on the UN to improve their living. If the UN fails to meet their expectations, they may take an antagonistic attitude toward it."

SINGAPORE: "Gus Dur's Line-Up Pits Cabinet Against House"

Irman G. Lanti, visiting research fellow at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, contributed this commentary to the pro-government Straits Times (8/29): "Clearly, the new cabinet lineup will not help Gus Dur in his relations with the Parliament dominated by PDI-P and Golkar members.... The present cabinet's situation is complicated further by the apparent reluctance of Vice President Megawati Sukarnoputri to be associated with it.... In any case, the present cabinet composition will put her in a difficult position. The lack of PDI-P presence will certainly invite its rank and file to put pressure on the government. Usually, she does not appear either to stop or promote such pressure. But with her more central role in the government, she is now in for a more complicated dilemma. The new cabinet and the vice president's increased role remind many people of the last two Soeharto cabinets.... Despite the apparent increase in her power, it is likely that Ms. Megawati will be similarly limited in a cabinet formed mainly by Gus Dur. So after the relatively peaceful and calm MPR session, where apologies were uttered and the spirit of cooperation soared, Gus Dur acts again. The almost complete alienation of all the other political forces will diminish his political capital, and hence his chance of surviving, further. Ironically, all this happened immediately after many felt that he had saved his presidency from the threat of impeachment."

"Gus Dur Hits Another Whammy"

A pro-government Business Times' editorial asked (8/25): "Is Indonesia about to sink into yet another round of political uncertainty? It would appear so, given how the new cabinet of President Abdurrahman Wahid has been greeted with disappointment. Far from being a major turning point for Indonesia, the line-up has become a new source of friction. The markets and the Indonesian media alike have reeled from shock at the Gus Dur's blatant disregard of public sentiment. He may have the power to choose only his own men, but if this has been done at the cost of unity and cabinet stability, it might prove most unwise.... By choosing to depend on a clutch of loyalists and his own PKB, which is a relatively small party in the legislature, Gus Dur has split the political terrain into two--a minority ruling party revolving around him, pitted against all the major players in the legislature. It simply does not augur well for the future of his government. And it makes no political sense.... Clearly, the reshuffle has failed to serve its purpose, and the possibility of yet another reshuffle cannot be ruled out. Politicians, who had been counting out Gus Dur's days in office, may decide not to stay their hand any longer. If the upshot is a further erosion of international investor confidence, it would be a tragic waste of a precious opportunity. Gus Dur's inability to rise above the domestic fray and play the statesman--instead of fighting in the trenches--may deny the country a second chance at national reconciliation and reconstruction. Indonesia desperately needs statesmanship. It can do without yet another round of political logjam. The faster its leaders can transcend their domestic political ambitions, at the expense of the economy and the people, the better it would be for not just Indonesia, but also its neighbors."

SOUTH KOREA: "East Timor Laying A Nation's Foundation"

Independent Dong-A Ilbo noted (8/28): "Since its independence from Indonesia a year ago, East Timor has worked hard to lay the foundation required to declare itself a fully independent sovereign nation. Nevertheless, it still faces challenges, mostly due to the lack of money and manpower, leaving many in doubt about whether the island can complete the making of a nation by 2001 as planned. The ongoing fight with those opposing East Timor's independence is, of course, compounding difficulties for the East Timorese.... The choice of an official language has proven to be a much more difficult issue than had been anticipated. Then the economy...remains the most urgent and difficult issue ahead."

THAILAND: "If Wahid Brings Down The Curtain"

Kiatchai Pongpanit speculated in sensationalistic Khao Sot (9/1): "If President Wahid has to actually leave office and is replaced by Megawati Sukarnoputri, the latter may have to appoint Akbar Tanjung as vice president in order to tone down her antagonists' criticisms of her and neutralize the pressure from her old rivals within Akbar Tanjung's Golkar Party."

"A Farce"

"Lens Zoom" commented in mass-appeal, Thai-language Daily News (9/1): "[The Soeharto corruption trial,] which everyone had expected to be a litmus test of the progress of the ongoing political reform...has turned out to be a farce whose end is already known [since]...President Wahid announced early on that he would issue an amnesty for Soeharto.... Understandably, the motive behind his decision was the fear of the situation snowballing into bloodshed following Soeharto's incarceration...since it is a known fact that Soeharto continues to wield much clout behind the nation's major forces."

"Do Wahid's Wiles Serve Indonesia?"

The lead editorial in the top-circulation, moderately conservative, English-language Bangkok Post observed (8/28): "Amid howls from parliamentarians for him to either step down or hand over the reins to Mrs. Megawati, Mr. Wahid finally last week ceded to his deputy the day-to-day management of the nation's affairs. And then in what many decried as a desperate attempt to restore faith in his leadership, he reshuffled the cabinet, ostensibly to make it leaner and more efficient. This tactic cost Indonesia its straight-talking coordinating minister for the economy, Kwik Kian Gie.... Many business people who had looked to Mr. Wahid for moral leadership now witnessed the loss of Indonesia's only ethnic Chinese cabinet minister with some disappointment. And many more found little cause for comfort in the ministers lining up in the new cabinet.... Given Mr. Wahid's record of mocking and sidelining his retiring but influential deputy, there is intense interest throughout Indonesia and elsewhere about whether Mrs. Megawati will be content with the 'tasks, not power' given to her so reluctantly by her superior."

"Keeping The Peace In East Timor"

The top-circulation, moderately conservative Bangkok Post commented (8/26): "A hefty report released on Wednesday called for wide-ranging changes in the UN peacekeeping machinery in East Timor.... With the deaths in East Timor of peacekeepers from New Zealand and Nepal...Lt-Gen. Boonsang Niampradit, (Thai) head of the 8,000-strong UN force there, has to think hard about this call as he investigates what went wrong, and conjures steps to prevent a recurrence.... As a country that has suffered fallout from conflict and difficult peacekeeping, Thailand should support the call for use of force by peacekeepers in the event of clear aggression."

EUROPE

BRITAIN: "Indonesia's Duty"

An editorial in the conservative Daily Telegraph held (9/8): "As UN leaders in New York have been making clear, Indonesia's government bears heavy responsibility for the killing of aid workers in West Timor. Behind this rampage lies the persistent reluctance of that government to tackle the militiamen. These are the men who laid waste to East Timor a year ago because [East Timor] had chosen independence from Indonesia. Plainly there can now be no return to West Timor by any UN personnel until the Indonesian government supplies adequate military defense. Yet there are doubts that this will happen. Of course, it is possible that the murder of the UN workers will compel Indonesia to take military action seriously. A floodlight has now turned onto this scene. If Indonesia chooses, for internal political reasons, to go on temporizing with the murderous militiamen, the world will know it."

FRANCE: "Payback Time For Soeharto"

Isabelle Laserre wrote in right-of-center Le Figaro (8/31): "It was meant to be a historic trial...but many will be disappointed. Not only because it has been limited to certain accusations, but also President Wahid has promised his predecessor a pardon if he is found guilty."

"Protecting East Timor"

Left-of-center Le Monde observed in its editorial (8/31): "In East Timor, the UN has, for the first time, been granted a mandate which is difficult to implement but which confers on the organization total sovereignty. Its job is to ensure the province's security and also to set the foundation for a new state.... The task is a difficult one, as the province remains fully dependent on international aid. But with time, the territory will gain from having a reduced population and its own natural resources. It is also lucky to have Xanan Gusmao, who may be able to bring together old enemies. Yet poverty and lack of education, in conjunction with a too affluent foreign presence, continue to fuel dissension. When the foreigners leave, the vacuum could become explosive. As for the military, it is not playing fair...and encourages East Timor's destabilization. On this issue, the international community must act rapidly and decisively. It must threaten Jakarta with cuts in financial aid.... That would be a service for East Timor and Indonesia."

"A Dictator On Trial"

Romain Franklin declared in left-of-center Liberation (8/31): "The trial that is about to open in Jakarta is a farce. To start with, the accusation will deal only with part of the embezzled funds.... As for Soeharto's condemnation, it remains doubly uncertain. First, because the legal system is still totally corrupted, and second, because even if Soeharto is found guilty, he has been promised a pardon by the new president."

GERMANY: "Writing On The Wall"

Jochen Reinert opined in an editorial in left-of-center Neues Deutschland of Berlin (9/8): "After the killing of four UN officials in West Timor, even the last observer must become aware of one fact: The pro-Indonesian militia groups that devastated East Timor last year will not keep quiet until they have been totally neutralized. This is a matter for the Indonesian government, but it has obviously lost control over West Timor. As with the East Timor referendum last year, there were early warnings but no preventive measures were taken. But [now] it is not only UN staff members who are in danger, but also the 125,000 East Timorese refugees being kept in camps like hostages. After yesterday's UN withdrawal, they are now totally in the hands of the militia groups. But this is not all. When the issue is the militia groups, then the external security of the newly developing Eastern Timorese state will be at stake, too. President Clinton and Britain's Premier Tony Blair used the opportunity of the killing of UN staff members to call for more effective UN blue helmet forces at UN Millennium Summit. But these two politicians are the worst advisors regarding East Timor. It was they who prevented an early mobilization of UN forces against the ravaging of the militia forces."

"Soeharto's Trial"

Right-of-center Frankfurter Allgemeine judged in an editorial (9/1): "Soeharto is not being held responsible for human rights violations under his administration. But it would be shortsighted to accuse President Wahid of not being serious about wanting to face the past. It is still too early for a comprehensive political investigation into the Soeharto regime. After all, Soeharto did some good for the country and still has some followers in Indonesia. If he were treated more aggressively at this point, the country could slip into another crisis. That is why President Wahid has already promised a pardon to Soeharto. However, if Soeharto's failing health prevents the trial from going forward, then this, too, will trigger unrest."

"The Executioner On Trial"

Centrist Sueddeutsche Zeitung of Munich suggested (8/24): "Some human rights activists complain that the trial focuses on a comparative trifle--the embezzlement of up to $550 million from seven 'charities' which Soeharto had set up. The trial does not deal with the genocide in East Timor, the regime's massive human rights abuses, or even the billions of dollars Soeharto and his family took out of the country. But is this really important? What is crucial is the fact that another player in the league of the Mobutus and Pinochets is being held accountable."

HUNGARY: "Indonesia On Political Slide"

Laszlo Szocs commented in leading Nepszabadsag (8/24): "The 'one-man show' is over by now, because the fairly popular, but politically inexperienced Megawati is not merely the holder of the post of vice president, but indeed, shares in President Wahid's rule. As some analysts have wagered...it is not certain that the head of state will fulfill the remaining four years of his term. If he doesn't resign (or is not forced to step down), if his impeachment hasn't begun, or if a new constitutional position (such as prime minister) isn't invested, then Wahid will find himself on a downward slide because he has to hand over a bigger share of power to his deputy."

IRELAND: "Independence For East Timor"

The moderately conservative Irish Times had this to say (8/30): "East Timor faces a major task of political, social and economic development as it attempts to recover from Indonesian occupation. The international effort focused on the UN transition authority can do much to encourage that development--although many feel the great gaps between the international force and the local communities they are to work with inhibit the effort. But unless the East Timorese themselves can resolve their disagreements by creating a multi-party system, it will be difficult to hold elections and prepare a constitution for an independent state. The East Timorese must be helped and convinced by all those who have worked with them to attain that goal."

WESTERN HEMISPHERE

BRAZIL: "Militias Humiliate UN"

Center-right O Estado de Sao Paulo's Paris correspondent Giles Lapouge wrote (9/9): "While chiefs of state attending the insipid Millennium Summit demanded firmness, West Timor militia were massacring UN officials. Did this happen just by chance, or was it planned by the murderers to force UN and Red Cross officials to leave West Timor? This doesn't matter: In both cases the UN was humiliated and outraged.... The impunity of the militias is due to their connivance with the military.... As a result of the barbarism, the chiefs of state gathered in New York City were touched. But what they decided to do so that UN officials no longer become the unarmed hostages of murderous gangs remains a mystery."

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