Chief Justice: Pluralism Not a Disease, But Strength
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Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Greg Moriarty accompanied by two of his staff, Secretary Allison C and Second Secretary for Political Affairs Annie Hildebrand visit to the Constitutional Court on Thursday (22/11) afternoon. On that occasion, Greg met and talked directly to Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, Moh. Mahfud MD. There is also the Secretary General of the Constitutional Court Janedjri M. Gaffar.

During the meeting, it was discussed a variety of things, one of which related to the plan Mahfud departure to Australia. The departure Mahfud to it is in order to attend a conference at the Australian National University with the theme "Pluralism Versus Intolerance in Indonesia". Mahfud invited as keynote speaker. Greg said it is ready to assist all needs related Mahfud departure and while in there.

In addition, Greg is also time to ask a few things, including about Mahfud view of the condition of the Indonesian nation today and in the future. Mahfud said, he is very optimistic with Indonesia. According to him, the nation has a lot of social capital. "We (read: Indonesia, pen) had a solid ideology," he said. Pancasila ideology is the basis of a very strong pluralism.

However, Mahfud said, plurality is not something that should be avoided or reason for optimism loosen. On the contrary, pluralistic society is actually a positive for the nation’s capital. "Pluralism is not a disease and resistance, but the power," he said.

Mahfud viewed, to maintain optimism and realize that, at least there are two things that must be met. First, strong leadership. Second, fair political recruitment. "If both existed, I think it’s easier," said Professor of Constitutional Law, Islamic University of Indonesia. And, with the recruitment of a more open politics, he said, will bear the political elite is easy to set and adjust themselves more accountable.

Not only that, further Mahfud, Indonesia also has other capital, such as the people with a high level of solidity and natural resources are very abundant. Although sometimes there is an incident or friction between communities, according to him, it’s just a handful. "There is movement, but the smaller ones," he said.

In addition to talking about it, Mahfud and Greg also discussed bilateral relations as friendly countries. One is related to spoken elections in Indonesia. Greg asked relating Mahfud view it. Mahfud also said if the Australians want to help Indonesia in terms of technical or knowledge exchange is not really a problem. During, help or involvement assessed objectively and proportionately and transparently accountable. "In practice (involvement) are not intervening," he added. (Dodi / mh/Yazid.tr)


Thursday, November 22, 2012 | 17:59 WIB 202