TNI Law Ensures Security Without Reducing Civilian Supremacy in a Democratic State
JAKARTA-The House of Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia (DPR RI) officially ratified the revision of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Law in a plenary session on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
The revision to Law Number 34 of 2004 covers several important aspects, such as the position of the TNI, opportunities for active members to occupy civilian positions, expansion of military operations other than war, and extension of the retirement age limit for soldiers.
The Chairperson of the DPR RI, Puan Maharani, emphasized that this revision still upholds civilian supremacy and does not reduce the role of society in the democratic system.
“We in the DPR RI and the government ensure that the revision of the TNI Law still prioritizes civilian supremacy, respects democratic rights, and upholds human rights in accordance with applicable regulations, both nationally and internationally,” said Puan.
He also emphasized that this revision is not an attempt to restore the TNI’s dominance in government as in the New Order era, where the TNI had a dual function in politics and bureaucracy.
Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, dismissed concerns that this change would revive the TNI’s dual function.
“Of all the articles that have been discussed and agreed upon, there are no provisions that give the TNI a dual role in government. So, the public need not worry,” said Dasco.
However, the ratification of this revised law has drawn various reactions. Several academics and civilian groups have highlighted the article that allows active TNI members to hold civilian positions, because it is feared that it could blur the boundaries between the military and civilians.
Responding to this, TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto emphasized that the revised law still maintains the TNI’s civilian supremacy and professionalism.
“The TNI is committed to maintaining a balance between the roles of the military and civilian authority, while maintaining civilian supremacy and professionalism in carrying out its main duties,” said Agus.
He also explained that this revision aims to adjust the TNI’s duties to the dynamics of threats that continue to develop, without overlapping with other institutions that have similar functions.
With the ratification of this revision, the government hopes that the TNI’s role will be more professional in maintaining national security, without reducing the balance between civilian and military supremacy. [^]
