Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, recently shared the draft of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Bill with journalists. This move was made in response to concerns circulating on social media, claiming that the bill differed from the actual discussions within the DPR. Dasco clarified that the online drafts were not representative of the one being discussed in Commission I of the DPR RI. The focus of the bill revisions is to enhance legal frameworks for preventing future violations, particularly in three specific articles.
The three articles under review include Article 3, Paragraph (2) on defense policy and strategy coordination, Article 53 concerning the retirement age of TNI personnel, and Article 47 allowing active-duty TNI personnel to hold positions in certain ministries or government institutions. Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin had previously submitted the problem inventories (DIM) for the TNI Bill to the DPR, proposing amendments to the existing TNI Law. Sjafrie assured that the revisions are solely directed at the three specified articles, ensuring civilian supremacy in the TNI’s functions and activities.
The distribution of the draft to journalists was intended to clarify any misunderstandings and criticisms surrounding the TNI Bill. Dasco urged journalists to review the draft themselves to comprehend the revisions and address any concerns raised on social media. The primary objective remains to uphold civilian supremacy within the TNI, with the DPR dedicated to transparent discussions and legal enhancements in defense-related policies.
