Commission III: Prabowo's Era More Democratic Than Previous Government

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Habiburokhman, chair of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), considers the era of President Prabowo Subianto’s government more democratic than the previous administration, as the phenomenon of law being used as a tool of power has lessened compared with the earlier era.

In terms of political position, he acknowledged having been in the opposition camp during the previous government. Whilst in that position, he lamented the use of legal cases as political instruments and tools of power.

“Forgive me, but it is now far more democratic,” Habiburokhman said during a hearing on the Asset Forfeiture Bill (RUU Perampasan Aset) at the parliamentary complex in Jakarta on Monday.

Regarding the drafting of the Asset Forfeiture Bill, he said there were parties who suspected that the old draft would be used. That draft, originating from the previous administration, was, he said, more extreme in nature and tended to be used to eliminate political opponents.

However, he assured that the draft now being prepared is an updated one.

He said the most important matter is ensuring that the law enforcement officials who will implement the law possess high integrity and cannot be bribed to criminalise critical voices.

In addition, he stated that Commission III of the DPR RI will formulate the bill to prevent the abuse of power in the future. The drafting of the bill, he said, must not be based solely on present conditions.

“We must think as if we are ordinary, powerless people, or perhaps in opposition on the opposing side,” said Habiburokhman.