*) By : Vina G.
The revision of the Indonesian National Armed Forces Law (UU TNI) which was recently proposed and approved by the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) has a very important meaning in the context of strengthening a democratic government system that respects human rights (HAM). Not only is it an agenda to improve the quality of professionalism of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), but this revision also serves to ensure that civilian supremacy is maintained. In a healthy democratic framework, civilian oversight of the military is a must. Therefore, it is important for the public to support this policy which is designed with attention to the principles of democracy and human rights.
The Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, in her statement emphasized that the new TNI Law clearly places civil supremacy as the main principle in the government system. This is the main basis in the drafting of the law. Puan stated that the Indonesian House of Representatives together with the government have worked hard to ensure that this law is drafted by taking into account the principles of democracy and human rights that apply, both in Indonesia and internationally. Although this law is important for improving the quality of the TNI, civil supremacy and democratic rights and human rights are still upheld, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
The importance of clear regulations on the relationship between the military and civilians is a focal point in this revision. The new TNI Law not only aims to strengthen the structure and capabilities of the TNI in maintaining state sovereignty, but also emphasizes the TNI’s position in a government system based on democratic principles. In this case, the military is regulated to remain uninvolved in politics or civil government. This is a strong foundation so that the TNI can remain focused on their main task, namely maintaining the integrity and sovereignty of the state without interfering in political affairs in civil government.
Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, also emphasized that the purpose of this revision is to ensure that the TNI remains focused on its main task, namely maintaining the sovereignty of the state. According to him, with the revision of the TNI Law, the military will remain on the path of professionalism, and will not be involved in politics or civil government. This is important because in a democratic government system, political space must be strictly separated between the roles of civilians and the military. This firmness aims to prevent potential abuse of power that can damage the democratic state order.
The revision of the TNI Law is part of the government’s efforts to maintain a balance between the role of the military in defending the country and civilian supremacy as the main regulator in national and state life.
Meanwhile, the Head of Law (Kakum) Koharmatau, Lieutenant Colonel Kum Anwar Musyadad, SH, MH, said that this law aims to improve the professionalism of TNI soldiers while ensuring that civil supremacy is maintained in community life. According to him, the new TNI Law not only pays attention to the aspect of military strength, but is also in line with the principle of maintaining a balance between the role of the military and civil authority.
It is important to note that the commitment to maintaining civil supremacy is in line with the direction of the TNI Commander who always prioritizes civil supremacy in every military policy and step. As part of an institution that functions to defend the country, the TNI is expected to work together with other civil institutions in order to maintain the stability of the country, and not vice versa, involved in political or governmental decision-making that is the domain of civil authority.
This TNI Law is actually a step forward in ensuring that the military works in accordance with high professionalism, as well as ensuring that there is firm civil control. With this law, the public will see a military that is more focused on its main task as the guardian of state sovereignty, and at the same time, ensuring that civil rights and democracy are well maintained.
It is important to remember that the ratification of the TNI Law is not the end of a journey, but rather part of a larger process. At this point, the public also needs to realize the importance of supporting this policy. As a democratic country, the public must support every step that strengthens civil supremacy in every aspect of national and state life. Keeping the military out of politics is one way to ensure that the country continues to run in accordance with the principles of democracy that have become the foundation of the country. Therefore, it is time for the public to fully support the revision of the TNI Law which places civil supremacy as the main foundation in the government system.
The public also needs to respond to this change rationally and objectively. In facing new policies, including the ratification of the TNI Law, it is appropriate to provide support based on existing facts and evidence, not based on fear or prejudice alone. All parties have a role in realizing a better Indonesia. Support for the TNI Law that has been ratified is one form of contribution from all elements of society in advancing the country and building a better future for future generations.
*) The author is a postgraduate student.