THERE is no need for President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to be entangled in a war of words over how to act against mass organizations disrupting public security and order. What is needed is a resolute stance. With his considerable authority as head of the government, President Yudhoyono could take measures far more effective than a thousand words.

The president’s statement in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara two weeks ago, was very appropriate when h