Indonesia Expands Military’s Role in Government Amid Controversy
Indonesia’s parliament has ratified a controversial law allowing military officers to hold more government positions, sparking concerns over increased military influence in civilian affairs. Backed by President Prabowo Subianto’s coalition, the amendment expands the number of state institutions where officers can serve and extends their retirement age as civil society groups fear this move could lead to human rights abuses and a return to military dominance reminiscent of the Soeharto era. While the government argues the changes are necessary for addressing modern security challenges, protesters and rights advocates warn of potential political impunity and abuse of power.
