Word: suhartos
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Dates: during 1990-1999
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...testament to the nature of power in Indonesia that the country must again be brought to the brink of disaster before leadership can be transferred. There is little argument that Suharto's rule is coming to an end. Said Amien Rais, a key opposition figure who heads the powerful Muhammadiyah Muslim organization: "The only way to stop this move toward anarchy is for Suharto to step down...
Students who have been demonstrating against Suharto's rule and in favor of democracy since February were more forthright. SUHARTO MUST BE THROWN OUT LIKE A DOG, read graffiti outside the elite Trisakti University in Jakarta. SUHARTO SUCKS THE PEOPLE'S BLOOD...
However, the military is the only body that will be able to pressure Suharto to step down--just as it is the only force that can restore order on the streets and stop the country from self-destructing. "Right now, they have a very tough decision to make," says Bayuni. "If they continue supporting Suharto, will the country break apart? Or if they pull out their support, will it save the country?" For three decades Suharto has practiced divide and rule, carefully inspiring personal loyalty from his generals while cultivating conflicts between them so that none would emerge to challenge...
Sources close to the military have told TIME that in the past three months, differences in the officer corps have been papered over and an informal advisory group has been meeting to discuss possible ways of easing Suharto out of power without loss of face to him or threats to national stability. One possible scenario: calling a special session of the parliament in three months' time, when Suharto could announce that he was stepping down and a new President would be appointed. Another option being considered is for Suharto to remain as a figurehead President, while a transitional council...
However, there is still one huge imponderable standing in the way of a peaceful handover of power, and that is Suharto himself. Senior figures at the Pentagon are skeptical that Suharto is ready to step down. Said a Pentagon official: "My sense is that Suharto will not go willingly. I think he'll put up a fight, and it could get very bloody." Most Indonesians were terrified by the sight of mobs running amok in Jakarta last week, and terrified because there was no immediate solution in sight...