Army chief appointment

Army chief appointment

In my opinion, the House of Representatives (DPR) is a
political body and the present Indonesian Military (TNI) is a
purely technical organization that has nothing to do with
politics.

There is no dual function anymore and no more meddling in
political matters. "Back to the barracks" is their slogan and
that is exactly what politicians desire.

Politics is the government's doings, and the TNI is only at
the government's orders. So it is rather strange that the DPR has
asked for a screening test for the officer who is going to be
appointed as commander. There is no need for the DPR to intervene
in this matter. This is unheard of, and the President has the
authority to give orders to the Army chief, not the DPR.

For instance, if Gen. Ryamizard Ryacudu is called by the DPR
to undergo a screening test, let's say, as governor of a
province, then there would be grounds for this test.

SOEGIH ARTO
Jakarta