Recently, Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, took the initiative to distribute the draft of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Bill to journalists. This move was in response to concerns spreading on social media regarding alleged discrepancies between the circulated drafts and the actual discussions within the DPR. Dasco clarified that the drafts circulated online differ from the one under consideration in Commission I of the DPR RI. The focus of the bill revisions is on enhancing legal frameworks to prevent future violations, with specific emphasis on three key articles.
The three articles currently 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 certain ministries or government institutions. Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin had previously submitted a list of problem inventories (DIM) for the TNI Bill to the DPR, proposing amendments to the existing TNI Law. Sjafrie affirmed that the revisions solely target the three mentioned articles, ensuring civilian supremacy in the TNI’s functions and activities.
The distribution of the draft to journalists was aimed at dispelling misconceptions and criticisms surrounding the TNI Bill. Dasco encouraged journalists to personally assess the draft to comprehend the revisions and address any concerns raised on social media. The primary objective remains upholding civilian supremacy within the TNI, with the DPR dedicated to transparent discussions and enhancements in defense-related policies.
