6 - Continuity and Discontinuity of the Models

Summary

This chapter will discuss the current developments of Muslim political thought. It will highlight the attitude of Muslim intellectuals towards political issues in Indonesia, particularly since the post-Soeharto era. The chapter will also examine the trajectories of the models of polity discussed in the previous chapters. As I have said in Chapter 1, the history of Islamic political thinking in Indonesia is the history of moderation and progress. This process, I argue, is attested by the increasing trend of liberal political attitudes. I will divide this chapter into three main sections, reflecting the elaboration of the three models of polity. In the last three chapters I discussed the three models chronologically. In this chapter, I will address them all together within one period of time. However, before we explore these three contesting models, let me first discuss the social and political background of the post-Soeharto era.

ISLAMIC POLITICAL DISCOURSE AFTER 1998

The fall of the Soeharto regime in 1998 signified many things for the Indonesian people. In the first place, it was hoped that the resignation of the powerful man who had ruled the country for more than thirty years would bring better political and economic conditions to the country. Politically speaking, Indonesia has indeed made significant progress, particularly if by “progress” we mean a move towards democratization. For the first time in three decades, Indonesian citizens felt free to express their political opinions, set up political parties, and openly criticize the government. Greater freedom of expression and opinion was the immediate advantage Indonesian citizens gained in this transition process to democracy. Press freedom was the first kind of freedom achieved. More than 800 newspapers and magazines were established within the first nine months of the downfall of the regime. Radio and television stations were suddenly out of control in broadcasting any issues that could possibly bring up their ratings. These media played a crucial role in disseminating information, not only about political change and the agenda of reformasi, but also sociocultural as well as religious-political issues in general. Intellectuals and religious leaders have eagerly used such media to air their divergent views. The mass media has now become a major arena for contesting thoughts and ideas.