Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, recently made an important move by distributing the draft of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Bill to journalists. This step was taken in response to concerns on social media regarding alleged deviations from the actual discussions within the DPR. Dasco clarified that the versions of the draft circulating online differ from the one being deliberated in Commission I of the DPR RI. The focus of the bill revisions is to strengthen legal frameworks and prevent future violations, particularly in three key articles.
The three articles under review include Article 3, Paragraph (2) concerning defense policy and strategy coordination, Article 53 which addresses the retirement age of TNI personnel, and Article 47 allowing active-duty TNI personnel to hold positions in specific ministries or government institutions. Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin had previously submitted the list of problem inventories (DIM) for the TNI Bill to the DPR, outlining proposed amendments to the current TNI Law. Sjafrie emphasized that the revisions target only the mentioned articles, ensuring civilian supremacy in the TNI’s role and operations.
By distributing the draft to journalists, the aim is to provide clarity on the TNI Bill and address any misconceptions or criticisms surrounding it. Dasco encouraged journalists to review the draft themselves to gain a better understanding of the proposed revisions and dispel any concerns raised on social media. The primary focus remains on upholding civilian supremacy within the TNI, with the DPR showing a commitment to transparent discussions and legal enhancements in defense-related policies.