Indonesia’s parliament approved amendments to a law allowing military officers to hold more government positions, despite concerns that it could expand military influence in civilian affairs.
The revision to the armed forces law, primarily backed by President Prabowo Subianto’s coalition, broadens the military’s role beyond defense, reviving fears of a return to the era of late dictator Suharto, under whom Prabowo once served. Suharto’s rule was marked by military dominance and suppression of dissent.
“Now it’s time for us to approve the amendment… Can we agree to legalize it into law?” House Speaker Puan Maharani asked lawmakers during the plenary session. The chamber responded with a resounding “agree,” and Puan struck the gavel, officially passing the amendment.
Military Chief General Agus Subiyanto argued last week that the 2004 military law was outdated and no longer relevant. Previously, military officers could only serve in 10 government agencies, including the defense ministry, and were required to resign or retire before taking civilian roles elsewhere.
The amended law now allows officers to serve in 14 state institutions, including the Attorney General’s Office and the Disaster Mitigation Agency, raising concerns that the government could fill more civilian posts with active-duty military personnel.
Rights groups criticized the move, warning that it could weaken legal checks on abusive officials.
“President Prabowo appears intent on restoring the Indonesian military’s role in civilian affairs, which was long associated with widespread abuses and impunity,” said Andreas Harsono, senior Indonesia researcher at Human Rights Watch.
“The government’s rush to adopt these amendments undercuts its expressed commitment to human rights and accountability,” he added.
