Power reversal

Article Abstract:

The Indonesian government promised, in Sep 1997, to review 29 of its private power projects. The government was responding to warnings from experts, including the World Bank, that Java had a 50% oversupply problem, and that the state utility faced financial difficulties due to the excess capacity. However, President Suharto, in Nov 1997, quietly allowed eight projects to proceed. Two of Suharto's daughters are involved in two of the projects. The decisions have stunned the International Monetary Fund which, as part of its $33 billion rescue package, was seeking more transparency and efficiency.

National Government, Public Administration, Political ethics

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Heavy hand: government moves to quell dissent

Article Abstract:

Recent clumsy efforts by the Indonesian govt to silence dissent are instead alienating the public and drawing attention to the supposedly dangerous people and ideas under attack. Govt efforts to discredit Megawati Sukarnoputri and her Indonesian Democratic Party, especially in E Java, are backfiring. THe govt has also closed three magazines in the past year, fired two MPs, put prominent figures on trial, and interrogated others repeatedly. The moves are apparently intended to quell dissent as the 1997 elections approach.

Dissenters

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Social dynamite

Article Abstract:

A spate of social-unrest incidents in Indonesia have officials and observers concerned, but the problem's source seems amorphous. Commonly cited causes for the rise in mob violence include a widening gap in incomes; widespread unemployment, especially among those under 25; economic growth creating unrealizable expectations; problems arising from industrialization; a sense of betrayal by, and distrust of, the govt; and a lack of avenues for venting frustration. The apparent anger could spell trouble in 1997 elections.

Economic aspects, Ethnic relations, Ethical aspects, Wealth

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