Indonesia’s Parliament Amends Military Law, Expanding Armed Forces’ Role in Civilian Affairs

Previously military officers could serve in 10 govt agencies.

By DTD- On Mar 20, 2025

JAKARTA: Indonesia’s parliament has amended a key law on Thursday, allowing military personnel to hold more government roles, despite criticism that it will increase the military’s influence in civilian matters.

The revision to the armed forces law, pushed by President Prabowo Subianto’s coalition, seeks to expand the military’s role beyond defense in a nation historically influenced by a powerful military.

The amendment has sparked concerns of a potential return to the era of former dictator Suharto, under whom President Prabowo served as a general. During Suharto’s reign, military figures played a significant role in suppressing dissent.

House Speaker Puan Maharani called for approval, asking, “Now it’s the time for us to ask the factions to approve the amendment… can we agree to legalise it into a law?” Lawmakers responded with a resounding “agree,” and Puan concluded the session by banging the gavel.

Military chief General Agus Subiyanto had previously argued that the existing law, which was passed in 2004, was outdated and no longer relevant to the country’s needs.

Previously, military officers could only serve in 10 government agencies, including the Ministry of Defense. To take on civilian roles in other institutions, they were required to resign or retire. However, under the new law, military officers can now hold positions in 14 state institutions, including the attorney general’s office and the disaster mitigation agency.

Human rights groups have voiced concerns, warning that the change would lead to more active-duty military personnel filling civilian roles and potentially weaken legal oversight of government officials, raising the possibility of increased impunity for abusive actions.

Andreas Harsono, senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, expressed his concerns, saying, “President Prabowo appears intent on restoring the Indonesian military’s role in civilian affairs, which were long characterised by widespread abuses and impunity.”

The government’s swift passage of the amendment has been criticized for undermining its commitment to human rights and accountability.