Civil Society Coalition Criticizes TNI Commander's Security Claims

A coalition of civil society organizations has sharply criticized Indonesian TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto's assertion that the military is responsible for the nation's security. The coalition, including prominent groups like KontraS and Amnesty International Indonesia, argues that Subiyanto's claim dangerously blurs the distinction between the TNI's defense mandate and the National Police's role in maintaining domestic order. "The claim of responsibility for public security shows that the boundary between defense and domestic security functions is increasingly blurred," stated Dimas Bagus Arya, Coordinator of KontraS. The coalition views this statement as a potential justification for the routine presence of the military in civilian affairs, a move that could undermine democratic reforms. They emphasize that Article 30 of the Indonesian Constitution designates the TNI's primary role as defending the country's sovereignty, while maintaining public order, providing protection, and enforcing laws are the responsibilities of the National Police. The coalition reminded the public that the separation of the TNI and Polri was a significant achievement of the reform era, aimed at ending the military's dual function and dominance in civil matters. While acknowledging that laws permit the TNI to assist the Polri under specific circumstances (operations other than war), the coalition stressed that such assistance must be based on genuine need and legitimate requests. They argue that the TNI should not be granted independent authority to define threats, determine operational areas, or conduct routine security patrols. "Assistance must be based on real needs and legitimate requests. The scope, objectives, duration, operational control, and accountability must also be publicly verifiable," Dimas added. The coalition also expressed concern over the TNI Commander's approach to demonstrations, viewing military patrols as a misguided response. They asserted that citizens exercising their rights should not be perceived as potential threats. Consequently, the coalition urged General Agus Subiyanto to immediately retract and correct his statement, and to cease claiming the TNI as the primary security authority for the public. They also called upon the National Police to provide transparency regarding any requests for TNI assistance and to ensure that military personnel do not engage in law enforcement activities such as investigations, arrests, or interrogations of activists.

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The claim of responsibility for public security shows that the boundary between defense and domestic security functions is increasingly blurred.