Human rights minister warns parliament: Asset seizure law must not confiscate citizens’ property

Indonesia’s proposed asset-seizure law has won support from Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai, but he is warning lawmakers not to give the state power to take citizens’ property without judicial protection.

Pigai said the legislation could strengthen efforts to combat corruption and other serious crimes. At the same time, he called for the bill to be drafted proportionately and aligned with human rights principles.

“Drafting a law must take into account the consequences if it is misused to coerce the people,” Pigai said in a statement on Thursday. He added that, as human rights minister, he had a duty to remind the House of Representatives to formulate the measure carefully.

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Drafting a law must take into account the consequences if it is misused to coerce the people. As human rights minister, I have a duty to remind the House of Representatives to formulate it carefully.

Pigai said protection of human rights, especially property rights, must remain the main priority. In his view, confiscation must be based on a valid court ruling rather than on the law alone.

“If the asset-seizure law targets not only corruptors but also ordinary people, on what basis would citizens’ property rights be confiscated solely under the authority of a law, rather than on the basis of a court decision?” he asked.

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If the asset-seizure law targets not only corruptors but also ordinary people, on what basis would citizens’ property rights be confiscated solely under the authority of a law, rather than on the basis of a court decision?