The Resurgence of Military Influence in Indonesian Politics
The New Army Law: A Step Back in Time?
Despite widespread protests, the Indonesian Parliament has unanimously approved a revision to the army law, allowing soldiers to occupy more government positions. This move has sparked fears of a return to the oppressive regime of former dictator Suharto, who ruled the country from 1967 to 1998. During his reign, Suharto installed fellow soldiers in crucial social functions, leading to widespread human rights abuses and corruption.
The Historical Context
Suharto’s regime was marked by brutal suppression of dissent. Did you know? During his 31-year rule, an estimated half a million opponents were killed, and corruption was rampant. After Suharto’s departure, the power of the army was curtailed in 2004, restricting soldiers to ten specific political offices, primarily related to defense, safety, and intelligence.
The New Law: Broadening Military Influence
The revised law expands the number of political offices available to soldiers from ten to fourteen. This includes positions as public prosecutors and at the Supreme Court. Critics argue that this move could lead to a resurgence of military influence in politics, reminiscent of Suharto’s era.
Behind Closed Doors: The Speed and Secrecy of the Law
The swift passage of the law has raised eyebrows. Just weeks ago, the latest changes were discussed behind closed doors in a hotel in Jakarta. This lack of transparency has fueled concerns about the motivations behind the law.
The Voice of the Protesters
Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the parliament to voice their dissent. Many protesters, like those who fought against Suharto in 1998, feel that this law is a step backward.
Pro Tip: Engage with local communities to understand the ground-level impact of political decisions. Their stories often reveal the true consequences of legislative changes.
The Role of President Pabowo Subianto
The objections of the demonstrators are partly inspired by the background of President Pabowo Subianto, who was elected in October. Subianto was once a son-in-law of Suharto and served under him as a commander. His past is marred by allegations of human rights violations in East Timor and the disappearance of students during the 1998 protests.
Impunity and Justice
Protesters argue that the new law will increase impunity for the army, making it harder to achieve justice for victims of past abuses. They fear that the power of the military is increasing, which could lead to further human rights violations.
The Argument for Synergy
Proponents of the law argue that dual roles for soldiers can create synergies between military and civilian functions. They also point out that soldiers are excluded from business positions, reducing the economic impact compared to Suharto’s era.
Key Comparisons: Suharto’s Era vs. Today
| Aspect | Suharto’s Era | Today |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Positions | Soldiers in 14 key positions | Soldiers in 10 key positions |
| Transparency | High secrecy | Some secrecy |
| Human Rights | Widespread violations | Concerns about future violations |
| Economic Impact | Significant | Less impact |
FAQ Section
What is the new army law in Indonesia?
The new army law in Indonesia allows soldiers to occupy more government positions, expanding from ten to fourteen key roles.
Why are protesters against the new law?
Protesters fear that the new law could lead to a resurgence of military influence in politics, reminiscent of the oppressive regime of former dictator Suharto.
What roles can soldiers now occupy under the new law?
Under the new law, soldiers can now occupy positions such as public prosecutors and at the Supreme Court, in addition to their traditional roles in defense and intelligence.
How does the new law compare to Suharto’s era?
The new law allows soldiers to occupy more government positions, similar to Suharto’s era, but with some restrictions on business roles to limit economic impact.
Stay Informed, Stay Engaged
The future of Indonesian politics is at a critical juncture. As the new law takes effect, it’s essential to stay informed and engaged. Share your thoughts in the comments, explore more articles on political developments, and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates. Your voice matters in shaping the future of Indonesia.