Indonesia's parliament has passed controversial revisions to the military law, expanding the role of armed forces into civilian sectors. The revisions, led by Speaker Puan Maharani, were approved in a unanimous vote during a plenary council, stirring debates across the nation. Critics argue the changes could signal a return to the "New Order" era under former President Suharto, during which military officers dominated civilian affairs.
Under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto, who took office last October and previously served as a special forces commander under Suharto, the Indonesian government has introduced key programs extending military influence. One such initiative is the flagship program offering free meals for children, a move perceived as part of the broader expansion of military presence in civilian life.
The contentious law revisions would allocate more civilian posts for military officers, a decision that has faced opposition from civil society groups. These groups have voiced concerns that such changes undermine democratic principles and could erode human rights. They fear it might reverse Indonesia's progress since transitioning away from Suharto's authoritarian regime.
Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin defended the revised law in parliament, emphasizing the need for transformation in response to global geopolitical shifts and advancements in military technology.
“The geopolitical changes and global military technology require the military to transform … to face conventional and non-conventional conflicts,” stated Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin.
Street protests against the changes are anticipated, with student groups actively participating in demonstrations. Some students have camped at the back gate of the parliamentary building since Wednesday evening, protesting the law and demanding the removal of military personnel from civilian roles.
The revisions have drawn sharp criticism, with protestors expressing fears of a regression to a more militarized governance structure reminiscent of Suharto's era. The students' demands highlight the broader societal apprehension regarding the potential implications of increased military involvement in civilian affairs.
