Indonesia Revises Military Appointment Law Amid Concerns Over Civilian Roles

Indonesia's government introduced a revised version of legislation on Tuesday, March 11, concerning the appointment of military personnel to civilian posts. The new draft stipulates that soldiers must resign from service before taking civilian positions, a change from the initial proposal that allowed President Prabowo Subianto to appoint active officers throughout the government. This revision addresses concerns that the expanded military role would revive a doctrine reminiscent of the Suharto era, where the armed forces dominated public life. Active soldiers can still hold civilian posts in specific agencies, including the defense ministry and intelligence. The government anticipates the legislation's passage this month, which also includes extending the retirement age for soldiers.