That, however, is only the first step in what will be a long battle. He has set a timetable for political reform, one both acceptable to the military and palatable to the people. Releasing political prisoners and soothing noises on East Timor has improved his image internationally. He appears more understanding and accessible, putting to rest fears that he would be inflexible and exclusive. A recent deal with the International Monetary Fund will not close the book on Indonesia-IMF wrangles.
Economic policy is unclear, coordination invisible.
If he is to have a political future, he must generate support not only among voters but also among cadres of the Golkar organization. Calls for an investigation into past alleged government transgressions, such as Suharto's reputedly ill-gotten wealth, cannot remain unheeded. For all his promises to resolve the question of East Timor, how exactly he will go about doing this remains unclear. Other restive regions, such as Aceh and Irian Jaya, are also waiting for concrete proposals. All Rights Reserved.