Suharto's Rejection Of Hero Title Is Proof That The Indonesian Nation Has Not Made Peace With The Past

Illustration of the rejection of the title of national hero for the second President of the Republic of Indonesia, Suharto.(ANTARA/Reno Esnir)

JAKARTA Lecturer of Political Communication at Esa Unggul University, Syurya M Nur assessed that the attitude of rejection from various elements of society, including PDI-P General Chair Megawati Soekarnoputri, regarding the proposal to award the title of national hero for the 2nd President of the Republic of Indonesia, Suharto, shows that the Indonesian nation has not fully reconciled with its past.

The easiest example is Mrs. Mega. As a former president, she should show a statesman who is a role model. This nation is a nation full of feelings, including apologies that should be exemplified from its leaders," he said, Sunday, November 9.

According to him, Megawati's rejection has its roots in the experience of the Soekarno family in the past. In fact, the decision actually risks growing revenge politics which could hinder the national reconciliation agenda initiated by President Prabowo Subianto.

"Pak Prabowo, I don't think he will be angry or angry. But if the spirit of reconciliation that he initiated is disturbed, it could disrupt the big program towards national collaboration. PDIP is a big party, has broad influence in the region," said Syurya.

He said many previous leaders could be examples of how to make peace with history without removing a critical attitude towards the past, such as the third President of the Republic of Indonesia, Abdurrahman Wahid or Gus Dur and Megawati's own husband, namely Taufiq Kiemas.

"Forerunners such as Gus Dur and Taufiq Kiemas have finished with the past. They show that our politics should be the politics of peace, love, and compassion. People should not continue to be treated to narratives of revenge," he said.

The doctoral student of Communication Science at Sebelas Maret University (UNS) also stated that the awarding of the title of national hero to Suharto could actually be a symbol of the greatness of the nation, where Indonesia is able to recognize the services of anyone without bringing historical grudges.

The narrative of revenge must be removed by political elites. As leaders, they should set an example for the people, with good communication, soothing, and building brotherhood," concluded Syurya.