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Military Warns of Takeover, if Chaos Continue in Indonesia
Indonesia's defence minister on Tuesday warned the military could seize power if political leaders did not end their bickering and focus on running the country.
And amid mounting fears a political battle between President Abdurrahman Wahid and his critics over two corruption scandals could spill over into violence on the streets, Wahid appeared on national television to plead his innocence and cool tensions.
Defence Minister Mahfud M.D. said there were no signs yet of a military takeover, but that the armed forces (TNI) would step in to prevent anarchy and a break-up of the world's fourth most populous nation.
"There are two things that could lead to TNI taking over," he told reporters.
"If the politicians fail to lead this country and, secondly, if there is chaos or anarchy which cannot be controlled, then the TNI can take action.
"They don't want to see this country break apart."
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