The government is suspected of attempting to broaden military appointments by revising Law Number 34 of 2004 concerning the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI).
The controversy has been heightened by the appointment of Indonesian Army Lieutenant General Novi Helmy Prasetya as Director General of Bulog, a position not traditionally designated for active military personnel.
Although it was stated that Prasetya had retired from military service, the decision is viewed as a reintroduction of the military’s dual function (Dwifungsi ABRI), reminiscent of the New Order era.
Sociologist Dr. Muhammad Najib Azca, Head of the Center for Security and Peace Studies (PSKP) UGM, noted the growing trend of military appointments in civilian sectors.
According to the constitution, military personnel are permitted to serve in government positions only in defense and security roles, such as the State Intelligence Agency, National Defense Institute, and National Search and Rescue Agency (SAR).
“This dual function of the military had already been abolished, but it’s now reappearing, starting during the second term of President Jokowi’s administration and expanding further under President Prabowo’s government,” Dr. Azca stated on Tuesday (Feb. 18).
He observed that two articles in Law Number 34 of 2004 were amended last year. Articles 47 and 53 now include a clause allowing ministries and agencies to recruit active military personnel according to presidential directives.
This permits soldiers to assume government and civilian roles with presidential approval without retiring from military service. The revision was approved by all factions of the House of Representatives (DPR) in the May 2024 plenary session.
Dr. Azca noted that the trend toward increasing military appointments in civilian sectors began under President Jokowi, who sought military protection. Under President Prabowo, this expansion may be more widespread due to the president’s military background.
“This revision needs scrutiny. It should not grant the government carte blanche to appoint military personnel to any necessary position. A thorough public discussion is essential,” Dr. Azca asserted.
He also emphasized the need to consider public sentiment regarding military personnel in civilian roles.
He highlighted the public’s perception of the military as superior, citing a Kompas survey from March 2024 in which 41.1% of respondents opposed military officers occupying civilian roles, while the same percentage supported it. Another 5.8% strongly agreed.
“There is a belief in militarism, where military values are seen as superior to civilian ones. Efforts are needed to demilitarize public perception and make people aware that civilian affairs do not require military involvement,” Dr. Azca explained.
This trend stems from the militarization of civilian positions during the New Order era, which led to positive public sentiment toward the military and militarism.
As a result, public opposition to the expansion of military appointments has been limited.
Unfortunately, these dynamics are deeply ingrained, making efforts to demilitarize society complex. This can be seen in civilian organizations adopting military values, including mass organizations and political party task forces.
Dr. Azca pointed out that, apart from Vietnam, Indonesia is the only country with a long-standing territorial military structure extending from the national to the regional levels.
“I believe this is a legacy of our guerrilla warfare days, but the problem is that this structure has been preserved. However, it is not compatible with democracy,” Dr. Azca remarked.
He emphasized that political parties should represent the public and clarify that civilian sectors do not require military involvement. Additionally, educating the public to support demilitarization is crucial.
“The military should remain focused on defense functions. While some non-military roles can be assigned, boundaries must be maintained to avoid returning to the New Order system,” he concluded.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya
Photo: Kompas.com