Military Neutral In Next General Elections: Commander

Jakarta, Oct 3 (Antara) - Commander of the Defense Forces (TNI) General Moeldoko reiterated that TNI will be neutral in the next general elections but it will help the General Elections Commission (KPU) with the implementation. "We have banned soldiers and commanders (to be involved in them). We will withdraw them if they are caught (being involved in them). We have also banned the usage of TNI assets by political parties. If we have a building, it may not be used for the purpose. Also, our trucks may not be used for campaign activities. We will fire those found doing that," he said after a rehearsal for the commemoration of the 68th anniversary of the Air Force at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force base in East Jakarta. He said all TNI members should be neutral in their behaviour and spirit. General Moeldoko even bet his head if defunct dual military-civilian functions of TNI re-emerged. "The dual functions of the Indonesian Armed Forces (ABRI) would not emerge again. If they do, you may cut my head," he said. He added that all civil service activities by TNI members may not be exploited by authorities. "Sometimes, it is difficult being a part of TNI. Whatever it does, even in good spirit, has always drawn suspicion. However, I do not care about it. So long as it is for the interest of the people, I will do it. Part of military operation tasks are connected with social and cultural aspects. Nothing is political," he said. In view of that, he has urged people not to be suspicious of TNI`s goodwill. General Moeldoko said TNI`s help to the KPU is genuine, even when KPU requires transportation to distribute elections logistics. He said TNI is ready to help provide the means without getting involved in KPU`s affairs.