The Fifth Column

31st May 1998

Student power show

My Dear Suharto,

When this letter reaches you, it will probably be too late but still, I thought I must share some thoughts with you while you look for something to do in your retirement.

Suharto, it's a pity that you had to leave just because some students rioted. You know, the university students are dangerous fellows, and they must be kept under control. If only you had asked us earlier, we would have told you how to pass an 'Anti-Ragging Bill' and curb student activity.

Then, we heard that your successor, Habibie, was essentially a harmless and incompetent man. Of course, we agree with you that as President, your second-in-command must be harmless and incompetent, but when, suddenly and by chance, he becomes the President, it is very dangerous.

Now you must realise that Sukarno's daughter Megawati is still in the Opposition.

Believe me, Suharto these daughters of former leaders are very, very dangerous, specially when they are opposed by weak leaders like Habibie.

They will use all their charm and Habibie might do silly things such as allowing free and fair elections. From what we hear, he has already freed some political prisoners. So, in such a situation there is every chance that this Megawati girl might come to power.

Now if that happens, there will be real trouble for you, Suharto. They will appoint Commissions of Inquiry into almost everything you did, even into the purchases of ships done over ten to fifteen years ago. So, you have to be very careful.

As for what you should do in retirement, the best thing to do is to do nothing controversial. Say nothing critical about Habibie and say nothing critical about Megawati. That way, you will keep both sides happy. Of course, you will be surprised at how only a few people would want to even see you after your retirement, but that is the way it is. And, if you do need some publicity, you could always give an interview and say something like how you drink a glass of brandy and hope to attain Supreme Bliss in your next birth.

Of course, Suharto, you must also expect some changes. For instance most of your privileges might be withdrawn. If you were to die, for instance, they might not give you a state funeral or declare a day of mourning even though you may be the man who ruled the country for so many years and masterminded the country's economic revival. But that's the way it is.

And, most importantly, don't ever think of returning to power. You have had your innings and no one will bother you as long as you are not a threat, but if you ever hint that you want to return, they will make sure you are hounded out of the country.

So, best of luck in your retirement.

Yours truly,

Punchi Putha.

Rajpal Abeynayake's Column

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