Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), recently distributed the draft of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Bill to journalists. This initiative was taken in response to concerns that have been circulating on social media, alleging discrepancies between the circulated drafts and the actual discussions within the DPR. Dasco clarified that the online drafts differ from the version being reviewed in Commission I of the DPR RI, with a focus on strengthening legal frameworks to prevent future violations in specific articles.
The key articles 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 specific ministries or government institutions. Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin had submitted the problem inventory list (DIM) for the TNI Bill to the DPR, proposing amendments to the existing TNI Law. Sjafrie assured that the revisions are solely directed towards the three mentioned articles, ensuring the civilian supremacy in TNI’s role and operations.
The dissemination of the draft to journalists was aimed at addressing misconceptions and criticisms surrounding the TNI Bill. Dasco encouraged journalists to review the draft personally to comprehend the revisions and address any concerns raised on social media. The primary focus remains on upholding civilian supremacy within the TNI, with the DPR committed to transparent discussions and legal enhancements in defense-related policies.
