-
What changes are being made to Indonesia's military law?
The recent revisions to Indonesia's military law permit armed forces personnel to hold civilian positions. This change aims to expand the military's role in civilian affairs, which has raised alarms among critics who fear it could undermine democratic governance.
-
How does this compare to the Suharto era?
The current changes echo the authoritarian practices of the Suharto era, when the military held significant power over civilian governance. Critics warn that these amendments could lead to a similar resurgence of military influence, threatening the democratic progress Indonesia has made since the late 1990s.
-
What are the implications for human rights in Indonesia?
Human rights activists are concerned that the expanded military role could lead to violations of civil liberties and a crackdown on dissent. The potential blurring of lines between military and civilian spheres raises fears of increased authoritarianism and reduced accountability.
-
How are citizens reacting to the military's expanded role?
Public reaction has been mixed, with many citizens expressing alarm over the potential return to authoritarian governance. Activists have labeled the law a 'democracy killer,' while others argue that the government justifies these changes as necessary for addressing geopolitical challenges.
-
What do critics say about the expedited passage of the law?
Critics have condemned the rapid approval of the military law revisions, arguing that it undermines democratic processes. The expedited nature of the law's passage has raised concerns about transparency and the government's willingness to engage with civil society.
-
What are the geopolitical challenges cited by the government?
The Indonesian government has cited various geopolitical challenges as a justification for the military's expanded role in civilian affairs. These include regional security threats and the need for a robust response to external pressures, which they argue necessitate a stronger military presence in governance.
