They left for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, without fanfare. For unknown reasons, they refused to speak. More than 40 former GAM activists and commanders, who used to bear arms, looked awkward in their attempt to learn a new trade. Were taking a course in politics, whispered a GAM leader in Banda Aceh prior to their departure for Malaysia a fortnight ago.

It is not clear how long the course will take, and why they are afraid to speak. Maybe the term pol