"There is no longer a dual function (like in the New Order era). It is in the past, part of the course of history," Coordinating Minister Hadi Tjahjanto remarked during a press conference in Jakarta on Thursday.
According to Tjahjanto, the TNI's dual function in the past allowed the army to enter the defense sector and politics.
Hence, in the past, there was an ABRI faction that sat in the House of Representatives (DPR) to make political decisions.
The minister explained that currently, the TNI's dual function is only intended to place its members in ministry or agency posts to support government performance.
"The TNI's task in institutional ministries is not for practical political purposes but is to respond to the needs of institutional ministries and in accordance with the presidential policy," Tjahjanto explained.
The capacity of TNI members occupying several ministerial or institutional posts will also be limited by regulations stipulated in the bill and regulations of the relevant ministries or institutions.
Hence, with the TNI's dual function, Tjahjanto is optimistic that the state institution can contribute more significantly to implementing government programs.
Currently, the Coordinating Ministry for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs is holding a discussion forum to deliberate on the TNI and Indonesian National Police (Polri) Bill.
In the forum, the Coordinating Ministry invited various parties, from academics to community figures and the media, to discuss the bill.
After receiving inputs from various public figures, the Coordinating Ministry will submit the input points to be discussed in the Problem Intervention List (DIM).
Related news: Revision of military law not to restore Dwifungsi doctrine: Moeldoko
Related news: Air Force transports drinking water pumps for Nusantara's development
Translator: Walda Marison, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2024