Indonesia's New Military Law Sparks Protests and Fears of Authoritarianism

Following Indonesia's parliament's approval of controversial military law revisions, hundreds of protesters clash with police, fearing a resurgence of military rule reminiscent of Suharto’s regime. With critiques emphasizing potential threats to democracy, many call for immediate action against the amendments.

Indonesia's parliament has ignited fury across the nation by passing legislation that expands the military's influence within the government, allowing active officers to take on civilian roles without resigning from the armed forces. Critics fear this could signify a regression to the authoritarianism of Suharto's era, which lasted until his ousting in 1998.

Backed by President Prabowo Subianto, a former military commander with familial ties to Suharto, the revisions have been met with resistance. Pro-democracy activists have rallied outside the parliament building since Wednesday night, with protest numbers swelling to nearly a thousand by Thursday evening. Shouting slogans like “Return the military to the barracks!” and displaying banners against militarism and oligarchy, the activists express their concerns over the erosion of democracy.

Human rights advocates warn that the essence of democracy lies in the military's detachment from political affairs. An activist from the Indonesian Association of Families of the Disappeared mentioned, “Since 1998, there has been a creeping murder of democracy.” The law allows military personnel to occupy 14 civilian institutions, a significant increase from the previous 10 and raises the retirement age for senior ranks, enabling higher-ranking officials to serve longer.

Critics, including Dedi Dinarto of Global Counsel, suggest this legislative change signifies a broader consolidation of power under Prabowo. Evidence suggests that prior to these amendments, nearly 2,600 active-duty officers had already taken on civilian roles. The implications of embedding military perspectives into civil governance raise alarms over the potential prioritizing of stability and state control over democratic integrity.

Prabowo’s controversial background contributes to public apprehension; he led a special forces unit implicated in the abduction of activists two decades ago. His government has already begun to expand military roles in civilian projects, including a $4 billion meal program for vulnerable populations.

Despite protests, the government defends the recent changes, citing the need for military modernization in light of global geopolitical shifts. Critics argue that the involvement of active-duty military personnel in civil functions threatens impartiality, particularly in the justice system. Concerns are voiced that this will hinder accountability and exacerbate human rights violations.

Amid ongoing dissent, activists assert that this struggle for democratic integrity will continue, emphasizing their commitment to opposing the law. With personal stakes in their fight to protect Indonesia's fragile democracy, protesters remain resolute in their demand for accountability and justice, pledging to occupy the ‘house of the people’ until victory is achieved.