Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), recently provided journalists with the draft of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Bill. This step was taken in response to concerns circulating on social media about alleged deviations in the bill from the actual DPR discussions. Dasco clarified that the versions circulating online differ from the one under discussion in Commission I of the DPR RI. The focus of the bill revisions is on reinforcing legal frameworks to prevent future violations, particularly in three specific articles.
The three articles under review include Article 3, Paragraph (2) concerning defense policy and strategy coordination, Article 53 regarding the retirement age of TNI personnel, and Article 47 permitting active-duty TNI personnel to hold positions in specific ministries or government institutions. Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin had previously submitted a list of problematic issues (DIM) in the TNI Bill to the DPR, with suggested amendments to the existing TNI Law. Sjafrie affirmed that the modifications are specifically directed at the three aforementioned articles, ensuring civilian supremacy in the TNI’s functions and activities.
The distribution of the draft to journalists was aimed at addressing misconceptions and criticisms surrounding the TNI Bill. Dasco encouraged journalists to review the draft themselves to comprehend the revisions and address any concerns raised on social media. The key focus remains on upholding civilian supremacy within the TNI, with the DPR dedicated to transparent discussions and legal enhancements in defense-related policies.
