As Indonesia’s House of Representatives prepares to pass a contentious military law, human rights advocates are raising alarms. They fear that the proposed changes, permitting military personnel to assume civilian roles, would usher in an era reminiscent of military dominance, invoking memories of the authoritarian Suharto regime. Protests by rights groups and student organisations are planned outside the House.
The Indonesian House is set to pass a military law revision that allows military personnel in civilian roles, raising concerns among human rights groups who warn it could lead to military domination and legal uncertainties similar to Suharto’s era. Protests are planned, while the government defends the law as a necessary adjustment. Key voices stress the need for civil supremacy and caution against potential abuses of power.
In conclusion, the impending law not only faces fierce opposition from human rights groups, who view it as a regression in democratic progress, but also from those concerned about its implications on civilian life. The discussions around this bill are marred by a lack of public transparency, and activists fear a resurgence of military impunity and abuse of power.
Original Source: www.thejakartapost.com
