A.M. Hendropriyono Warns Against Divide-and-Rule Tactics Among Fellow Citizens

Former head of the State Intelligence Agency (BIN), retired General A.M. Hendropriyono, has urged all elements of the nation to be vigilant against divide-and-rule tactics by certain parties. The intelligence professor highlighted various recent developments, noting that such efforts are carried out through the spread of false information, hoaxes, and provocations. “We all need to be wary of incorrect information, especially slander, hoaxes, and provocations deliberately spread to pit fellow citizens against each other,” Hendropriyono said in a statement in Jakarta on Friday. He noted that history has shown division often begins with misleading information and suspicion deliberately planted within society. According to him, differences of opinion in a democratic country must occur through lawful, peaceful, and constitutional mechanisms. He further reminded the public to be alert to any efforts that encourage hatred, hostility, or unconstitutional actions threatening the legitimate government. In the current climate, he deemed it crucial to always prioritise common sense, verification, and respect for the law. “Do not be easily provoked by issues whose sources and objectives are unclear,” he cautioned. He stressed that national unity, constitutional order, and state safety must always be placed above group interests and fleeting political ambitions. He assessed that any unconstitutional efforts threatening national unity and the legitimate government should receive no sympathy in national life. On the same occasion, Hendropriyono also responded to circulating accusations linking him to movements harshly criticising the government. “I affirm that I and those close to me are not involved, do not support, and have never ordered anyone to carry out activities aimed at overthrowing the legitimate government,” he said. Expressing opinions in public within a democracy, he argued, must remain within legal and constitutional corridors. He dismissed as hoaxes and slander any accusations without valid evidence that link him or those around him to an agenda of overthrowing the government. Hendropriyono revealed that he has long dedicated himself to the nation through various assignments. “My principle remains the same: safeguarding the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, Pancasila, the 1945 Constitution, and national stability,” he stated. “That is not a path I believe in,” he added. He also called on the public not to easily believe hoaxes and to always check facts before disseminating information. “I have never and will never be behind any demonstration to overthrow the government,” he asserted. According to Hendropriyono, his commitment to the Soldier’s Oath has been upheld continuously from his active service days through to his retirement. The commitment he referred to is protecting the nation, not destroying it.