Jakarta - “Like a child slapping his mother's face in public.” Perhaps that is the apt phrase to describe the behavior of a group of people who “successfully” caused a deadlock at the PSSI congress last week. The congress, which was initially intended to elect a general chairman, turned into a tragic “drama” whose effects were extremely detrimental. Both for Indonesian football , and for the entire nation.
How could it not be so? Because of their actions, Indonesia is just seconds away from receiving sanctions that will be imposed by FIFA. And if that happens, then Indonesia will find it difficult to compete in the international football arena.
This incident should not have happened if every participant in the congress could have restrained themselves. Being patient, listening, and respecting the opinions of others, this incident has truly taught us that emotions and desires will bring bad consequences upon ourselves.
Where have the values of good manners, tolerance, and togetherness gone, values they once learned in school since they were children? What made them appear so eager for their favored candidate to enter the nomination race?
There are whispers mentioning that there was “money politics” in the congress. Where each vote was valued at around 500 million rupiah by a Candidate.
If that is indeed what happened, then is the price of unity so cheap?
These questions should not merely be considered as “passing thoughts” that mean nothing. Instead, they should serve as a mirror for us so that we do not imitate the “strange” behavior of those “blind” supporters.(Satrio)