Dharma Pongrekun Asks Constitutional Court to Review Health Law for National Sovereignty

Dharma Pongrekun, former head of Indonesia's National Cyber and National Security Agency (BSSN), has called on the Constitutional Court to review the recently enacted Health Law (Law No. 17 of 2023). Pongrekun believes the law poses a threat to national sovereignty by potentially opening the door to undue influence from global health policies.

"This needs to be seriously considered because it has the potential to threaten national sovereignty," Pongrekun stated in Jakarta. He expressed concern that Indonesia has not yet officially rejected amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Pongrekun views these amendments as a "muzzle" pointed at the nation, capable of impacting national health policies.

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This needs to be seriously considered because it has the potential to threaten national sovereignty.

He specifically criticized Article 446 of the Health Law, which outlines sanctions for obstructing epidemic control measures. Pongrekun argues this article could create issues, particularly for individuals who object to vaccinations based on their personal beliefs. He believes the law, as it stands, provides a broader avenue for external influences on national health strategies.

Pongrekun emphasized the crucial role of the Constitutional Court in safeguarding national sovereignty through its decisions. He hopes the court will consider not only the legal formalities but also the broader implications for the public and the nation's autonomy when making its ruling. "I hope every decision is made with wisdom for the future of the nation and country we love," he concluded.

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I hope every decision is made with wisdom for the future of the nation and country we love.