REVISION of Law Number 34 of 2004 concerning the Indonesian National Army (TNI) has been criticized. The Indonesian House of Representatives and the government as the formulators of the regulation invite all elements of society to carry out the revision.
“Urging the government and the DPR to involve the community meaningfully in all law-making,” said the Central Coordinator of the Indonesian Student Executive Board (BEM SI) Rakyat 2024, Satria Naufal Putra Ansar, in a written statement, Wednesday, July 10, 2024.
According to him, community involvement is very important, especially in the revision of the TNI Law. Because, there are concerns regarding the emergence of ABRI’s dual function like during the New Order.
“We strongly condemn all actions that are not in accordance with the ideals of reform and efforts to revive the dual function of the ABRI,” he said.
He alluded to the draft revision of the policy that mandates the placement of active soldiers. The draft stipulates that placement must be based on the request of the head of the relevant institution. According to him, this opens up a gap for military intervention in the civilian sphere.
With this gap, he said, there is the potential for conflict of interest and dual loyalty which is a serious threat. Especially, in critical situations that require objectivity and independence in decision making.
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“This might create parallel lines of command and loyalty that might potentially erode the integrity and independence of civilian institutions,” he said.
TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto responded to concerns regarding the revision of the TNI Law. The Commander invited everyone to think positively.
“I think we have to think positively, I think the public also understands that,” said Agus at the Parliament Complex, Senayan, Jakarta, Wednesday, July 10, 2024.
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Agus believes the policy changes are for the welfare of the community. Including, helping government programs.
“Yes, for the welfare of the community, to help government programs, and for other things,” said Agus.
The four-star general said that TNI soldiers are currently needed in various aspects. Agus admitted to receiving a number of MoUs with ministries to work together. (Z-6)
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