Retired Officers Forum Is Not an Official TNI Representation, Political Claims Must Be Clarified
JAKARTA – The emergence of a forum claiming to represent retired TNI-Polri officers recently caught the public’s attention due to its political demands made in the name of the institution. However, this forum is not part of any official organization of retired officers recognized by the state. This clarification is crucial to prevent public misinterpretation of the official stance of the TNI family and to preserve the neutrality of the institution in political affairs.
Major General (Ret) Komaruddin Simanjuntak, Acting Chairman of the Indonesian Army Retired Officers Association (PPAD), stated that the eight demands voiced by the forum do not represent the official position of PPAD or the entirety of retired TNI officers.
“The statements made by this forum do not represent PPAD or all retired TNI officers,” Komaruddin stressed.
He explained that official organizations such as PPAD, PEPABRI, PPAL, PPAU, PP Polri, and PERIP are legally recognized and structured to channel the aspirations of retired officers in an orderly and constitutional manner.
“PPAD is the legitimate platform for expressing the thoughts and aspirations of retired officers in a constructive way,” added Komaruddin.
Furthermore, Komaruddin reminded that maintaining the solidarity and dignity of the TNI is a moral obligation for all retired officers. Statements from unofficial forums risk being exploited by certain parties to create the impression of division within the TNI, while the majority of retired officers support the legitimate government and remain committed to the principles of the Sapta Marga.
“A soldier’s service does not end upon retirement but continues in maintaining the unity and integrity of the nation,” concluded Komaruddin.
Meanwhile, Political Analyst Hendri Satrio reminded the public not to jump to conclusions based on one-sided claims that do not come from legitimate institutions.
“The public needs to understand the difference between individual opinions and those representing an institution. This is important for maintaining national political calm,” said Hendri.
This explanation reinforces the narrative that the official voice of the TNI and retired officers can only be conveyed through legitimate and constitutional channels. In the context of national stability, such clarifications are essential to prevent the public from falling into misinformation that could undermine trust in defense institutions.
