The wave of rejection of the revision of the TNI Law and the Polri Bill is getting stronger, and this has sparked heated debate among the public. The revision of the two laws is considered to contain clauses that give rise to the potential for instability in the country’s security system.
Minister of Defense, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, emphasized that the revision of the TNI Law that has been approved by the DPR confirms the end of the TNI’s dual function role.
“There is no more dual function in Indonesia. Never mind bodies, even their spirits are gone,” he said.
The Minister of Defense added that several figures currently serving in civilian positions are retired TNI, not active soldiers.
He wanted to clarify public concerns regarding the involvement of active soldiers in civilian institutions, such as what happened at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN).
“No, they all retired a long time ago,” he said.
Despite the rejection, Sjafrie appreciated the criticism that emerged regarding the revision of the TNI Law.
“I would like to thank all parties who have provided input and even rejected this revision. However, let us maintain the unity of the nation,” he said.
The Minister of Defense emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony in the Indonesian nation, considering the increasingly complex challenges at the global level.
“We are the Indonesian family that must maintain unity in facing threats, both conventionally and unconventionally,” he continued.
Meanwhile, the TNI Headquarters responded to concerns raised by the public regarding the placement of active TNI soldiers in ministries and civil institutions.
The Head of the TNI Information Center, Brigadier General TNI Kristomei Sianturi, ensured that TNI soldiers would not take over positions that should be held by civil servants.
“This is a form of cooperation between the TNI and civil institutions. We will not take over positions that should be held by civil servants,” said Kristomei.
On the other hand, the discussion of the revision of the Polri Bill has also received serious attention. Member of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Hinca Panjaitan, ensured that the discussion of the revision of the Polri Bill would be carried out openly.
He confirmed that Commission III of the House of Representatives has not yet begun discussing the National Police Bill and is focusing more on revising the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP).
“However, we will do it openly. Believe me, if the National Police Bill also enters our hands, we will do the same thing as discussing the Criminal Procedure Code,” added Hinca, emphasizing his commitment to transparency in every discussion involving the public.
