Students Protest TNI Law in Bandung, West Java DPRD
- Bandung - Students protested the ratification of a law at the West Java DPRD Building in Bandung on Friday.
- Protesters, identifying as part of the Indonesian Student Executive Board (BEM SI) in West Java, began gathering at 4 p.m.
- Demonstrators have thrown bottles, firecrackers, and tires, and lit flares.
Students Protest Law Ratification in Bandung
Table of Contents
- Students Protest Law Ratification in Bandung
- Students Protest Law Ratification in Bandung: A Q&A
- Introduction:
- Key Questions and Answers:
- 1. What law is being protested, and why?
- 2.What are the specific concerns regarding the new law?
- 3. What specific actions are the protesters taking?
- 4. What is Article 47 of the new law that is drawing criticism?
- 5. Why are the students questioning the role of the DPR (House of Representatives)?
- 6. What are the potential implications of the new law?
- 7. How does this law compare to previous legislation or practices?
- Conclusion:
Published: March 21, 2025
Bandung – Students protested the ratification of a law at the West Java DPRD Building in Bandung on Friday.
Protesters, identifying as part of the Indonesian Student Executive Board (BEM SI) in West Java, began gathering at 4 p.m. local time.
The protest is ongoing. Demonstrators have thrown bottles, firecrackers, and tires, and lit flares.
ahmad Siddiq, identified as a protest coordinator, saeid the presentation rejects the law.
we ask the DPR to withdraw the TNI Law that has been passed,
he said.
Siddiq criticized Article 47, which concerns the placement of active military personnel in ministries and institutions. He argued this opens the door for the military to enter civilian domains.
What when the TNI has entered the civilian,what is the fate of the people? The TNI is required to maintain the security of the country,not entering the civil domains,
Siddiq said.
Siddiq expressed disappointment that the DPR did not consult the community before ratifying the law, arguing that the DPR should consider public opinion.
Do we deserve to state that the DPR is a representative of the people? If so, what is the point of the House of representatives? The DPR should make an open meeting for the people,
he said.
Students Protest Law Ratification in Bandung: A Q&A
Introduction:
A wave of protests erupted in Bandung, West Java, on Friday, March 21, 2025, as students voiced their opposition to the ratification of a controversial new law. This Q&A provides a deeper understanding of the student’s concerns and the implications of the new law.
Key Questions and Answers:
1. What law is being protested, and why?
The primary target of the protests is a newly ratified law concerning the role of the Indonesian military (TNI). Students, represented by the Indonesian Student Executive Board (BEM SI) in West Java, are specifically concerned about how the law allows active military personnel to take on civilian roles within government ministries and institutions.
2.What are the specific concerns regarding the new law?
The main concern, as voiced by protest coordinator Ahmad Siddiq, is that the law opens the door for the military to enter civilian domains (Article 47). Critics fear this could lead to a shift in power dynamics, potentially undermining civilian governance and democratic principles.Concerns include:
Erosion of Civilian Authority: The placement of military personnel in civilian institutions could dilute the authority of civilian leaders, potentially leading to decisions that prioritize military interests over public welfare.
Risk of Human Rights Abuses: Critics have raised concerns about a potential increase in human rights violations, fearing a return to a period of military dominance.
Lack of Public Consultation: Students and others involved in the protest expressed disappointment that the DPR (House of Representatives) did not consult the community before ratifying the law.This lack of public input undermines the principles of democratic representation.
3. What specific actions are the protesters taking?
The protests, which began at 4 p.m. local time, involved various forms of demonstration. Protestors threw bottles, firecrackers, tires, and lit flares. They are demanding that the DPR withdraw the law.
4. What is Article 47 of the new law that is drawing criticism?
article 47 is a critical part of the new law and allows active military personnel to take on positions with civilian institutions.The detail of article 47, as criticized by the protesters, gives them the possibility to gain power in civilian domains.
5. Why are the students questioning the role of the DPR (House of Representatives)?
Students are questioning the DPR’s legitimacy as representatives of the people. They believe the lack of community consultation before ratifying the law demonstrates a disregard for public opinion. They argue that the DPR should conduct open meetings to discuss matters of public concern.
6. What are the potential implications of the new law?
The new law has the potential to significantly impact Indonesia’s political landscape. Some possible implications:
Increased Military Influence: The law could lead to greater military influence in government and policy-making.
Democratic Backsliding: Critics fear the law represents a setback for democratic governance.
Human Rights concerns: There is concern that the increased presence of the military in civilian spheres could lead to human rights violations.
7. How does this law compare to previous legislation or practices?
The new law represents a change from prior practices and allows a bigger military role in the government.
Table: Key Changes Introduced by the Law
| Feature | Before Law | After Law |
| :————————– | :—————————————————————- | :—————————————————————————– |
| Military Personnel in Civilian Institutions | Fewer positions | More positions allowed |
| Retirement Age for Ranks | Lower | Raised for most ranks |
| Public Consultation | Consultation with the community | Not enough attention from DPR to the community opinion |
Conclusion:
The protests in Bandung highlight the anxieties surrounding the new law, the potential for a more significant military role in civilian affairs, and the concerns regarding the democratic process. The situation is ongoing, and the outcome will likely shape Indonesia’s political trajectory for years to come.