T

his refers to '€œFacing criticism, Gerindra backpedals on '€˜religious purification'€™ pledge'€, (The Jakarta Post, June 3).

The contradiction between Pancasila and sharia is so blatant and crystal clear that politicians using the '€œIslamic banner'€ continue to dodge a very simple question: '€œIs the aspiration for a society based on sharia compatible with the aspirations laid out in Pancasila?'€

And what about the military and retired military leaders; are they upholding their oath to Pancasila and the people when they openly form alliances (of convenience) with parties who promote and sympathize with a society that denies the very freedoms Pancasila is supposed to guarantee?

And if sharia is not only condoned but actively promoted, why is this political aspiration not regarded as similar to the political aspirations of separatists as treason, in accordance with Indonesia'€™s prevailing laws and regulations?

One might question the reason for a party to sacrifice its principles to the highest bidder only to feed its leader'€™s megalomania and satisfy its own. But in politics, all over the world, alliances are made for exactly that purpose '€” the perks of holding power.

Surely it takes character to form political alliances and compromises solely based on integrity and principles, but that is a quality not many in this country seem to possess.

It seems that politics in Indonesia have always been shaped in a Borgia-Machiavellian form of governance where intrigue, deceit and by all sneaky means necessary, cunningly outwitting your nemesis is the art of grabbing, consolidating and passing on power without ever losing it.

And when the Indonesian people themselves discover their politicians'€™ imbroglio and start labeling it as such, they should take a very long look in the mirror and admit they recognize themselves; albeit not in that preferred position, but surely envying it.

The world is a stage and we are all wayang (puppets).

Asher Tauran
Jakarta