ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Indonesia’s parliament passed a significant amendment to the country’s armed forces law on Thursday, broadening the role of the military within government institutions. The revision has stirred debate, with critics raising concerns about the potential for increased military influence in civilian affairs.
The new law, which was championed by President Prabowo Subianto’s coalition, allows military personnel to hold positions in more government bodies, expanding the previously limited scope of military involvement in governance. Under the 2004 military law, active-duty officers could only serve in 10 government institutions, including the Defense Ministry. The revised law now permits military officers to take roles in 14 government institutions, which include high-profile bodies like the Attorney General’s Office and the Disaster Mitigation Agency.
In a plenary session, House Speaker Puan Maharani urged lawmakers to approve the amendment, and the vote passed with overwhelming support. “Can we agree to legalize it into law?” she asked, to which the response was a resounding “agree,” signaling the amendment’s official passage.
Concerns over Democratic Integrity
While proponents argue that the amendment modernizes the law to align with current needs, critics have raised alarms about its potential implications. Human rights groups have expressed concerns that the law could pave the way for active-duty officers to fill civilian posts, potentially undermining democratic structures and checks on power.
Andreas Harsono, senior Indonesia researcher at Human Rights Watch, warned that this move could erode the country’s hard-earned democratic progress, referencing the authoritarian rule of former President Suharto. Under Suharto’s regime, the military held extensive power, with military officers occupying key government positions. “President Prabowo appears intent on restoring the Indonesian military’s role in civilian affairs, which were long characterized by widespread abuses and impunity,” Harsono stated.
A Shift in Military Governance
The change comes at a time when the military is looking to expand its influence, with General Agus Subiyanto, the Indonesian military chief, arguing that the previous law was outdated and no longer suitable for modern governance. Proponents of the amendment assert that such an expansion of the military’s role is necessary to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of government operations, particularly in crisis management and national security.
While the law offers the military a broader foothold, the debate over its long-term implications continues, with many questioning whether it could lead to a reassertion of military dominance over civilian life.
As Indonesia moves forward with these changes, the global community will be watching closely to assess their impact on the country’s democratic integrity and international standing.
