X of X: A Special Message for the International Communities
In 1999, the cruel conflicts exploded again between the religious groups: Moslem and Christian. It occurred in Ambon, South Maluku. Later, conflicts spread to Ternate, North Maluku. Everyone, even international communities know that Maluku conflicts caused the worst situation. Thousands of people were killed; hundreds of thousands left their houses; thousands of houses, churches, mosques, buildings were burnt and damaged. Of course, in one combat usually many people killed; because both of the groups use guns. In addition, modern guns are used in Maluku. It indicated that the political elite in Jakarta, particularly from the military, are involved in the conflicts.
Madame Chairperson, The situation in Maluku, in the recent months, was getting worst. Laskar Jihad (Holy Force) which was set up in Jakarta, was sent to Maluku to support Moslems. There are thousands in the force who were sent to Maluku, and they are armed. Previously, they made many maneuvers in Java, such as demonstrations in Presidential Palace and Parliament. But no measures were taken to arrest them, although in demonstration they brought "tools" such as swords, knives, etc. Some political elites, such as Amien Rais, agreed with the building of the forces.
At the same time, similar conflicts took place in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara. It were the conflicts that, many people claimed, provoked by Maluku conflicts. Christians and ethnic Chinese were the target the violence. The similar violence also took place in Poso, Central Sulawesi. Hundreds of people were killed; thousands left their houses. Even, high school students could not follow their examination.
Our government, intimidated by the pressures from some political elites, made a policy in Maluku, which is called the Civil Emergency. After few weeks that the policy was enforced, still there is no peace, or at lest conducive situation, that could be created. Some new conflicts occurred again. Of course, they re-occurred again. The Civil Emergency was being implemented with sending the more troops. In addition, we know that the military is not neutral. They have been influenced by the conflicts. Moreover, critically thinking, where do the guns come from?
Madame Chairperson, We realize that the Maluku conflicts will not be successfully solved by the political measures there. Political measures should be taken in Jakarta through the arresting of the political elites who are involved in the conflicts. However, in Maluku, a professional measure should be taken, i.e., setting up a body to function as a Crime and Atrocity Stopper. To be able
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