Coalition calls for petition to stop remilitarization

A coalition of academics, civil society activists, journalists, and citizens has launched a petition titled "Stop Remilitarization: Militarization of Civilians Threatens Democracy and the Rule of Law." The group argues that the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) are increasingly involved in civilian matters, posing a threat to democracy, weakening the rule of law, and potentially reviving the military's "dwifungsi" (dual-function) doctrine.

Al Araf, chairman of Centra Initiative, stated that the TNI's current role exceeds its primary function as a state defense instrument. He noted the military's involvement in various government programs outside its constitutional mandate. The coalition, comprising organizations like Imparsial, KontraS, Amnesty International Indonesia, and YLBHI, cited examples of TNI's participation in programs such as "Makan Bergizi Gratis" (Free Nutritious Meals), village cooperatives, forest area management, and security for national strategic projects.

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Stop Remilitarization: Militarization of Civilians Threatens Democracy and the Rule of Law

The petition asserts that the military's involvement in non-defense functions contradicts the constitution, as the TNI's duty is defense, not development or law enforcement. The proponents believe this expanding role could diminish the TNI's professionalism as a defense force, arguing that soldiers are trained for warfare, not political interests or government projects.

Furthermore, the petition highlights policies perceived as militarizing civilian spaces, such as basic military training within the "Koperasi Desa Merah Putih" program. The coalition pointed to the deaths of five participants as evidence of negative impacts, suggesting that cooperative members should receive management and business training, not military drills. They also criticized the TNI's management of the "Makan Bergizi Gratis" program, noting that by October 2025, the TNI managed 452 nutrition fulfillment service units across various regions, which they see as a politicization of the military to support government programs. Data from KontraS indicates 44 incidents of violence involving TNI members between January and April 2026.

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The military's involvement in non-defense functions contradicts the constitution. The military's duty is as a state defense instrument, not a development tool or law enforcement apparatus.