Activists in world’s third-largest democracy warn that changes to the law could signal a return to military rule.
Published On 20 Mar 2025
Indonesia’s parliament has ratified a contentious law allowing members of the military to hold more government roles, despite criticisms that it could expand the armed forces’ role in civilian affairs.
Thursday’s revision to the armed forces law, pushed by President Prabowo Subianto’s coalition, is aimed at expanding the military’s remit in a country long influenced by its powerful armed forces.
The amendments have been criticised by civil society groups, who say they could return Indonesia to the draconian era of former President Soeharto when military officers dominated civilian affairs.
Rights groups have criticised moves to boost military involvement in public affairs because they fear it could lead to abuse of power, human rights violations and political impunity for army personnel.
Protesters from several democracy groups have said they will stage demonstrations in Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital. On Wednesday evening, a handful of students camped at the back gate of the parliamentary building to protest against the