DPR Member Rebukes TNI After Soldiers Throw Acid on Activist, Invokes Prestigious Name

Jakarta - Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the DPR, Dave Laksono, has reprimanded the TNI regarding the case of acid being thrown at KontraS activist Andrie Yunus by four TNI soldiers from the Strategic Intelligence Agency (Bais). Dave reminded that the TNI possesses a prestigious name that must be safeguarded. “We emphasise the importance of the TNI institution maintaining its integrity and professionalism, as well as ensuring that every soldier understands the legal and ethical boundaries in carrying out their duties. Deviant actions that stray from the rules must not be allowed to tarnish the great name of the TNI as the guardian of the nation’s sovereignty,” said Dave to Kompas.com on Thursday (19/3/2026). Dave stated that the violent act committed by the four TNI soldiers not only physically harms the victim but also damages the values of democracy and human rights, as well as affecting public trust in the role of state institutions in upholding justice and maintaining public security. “This becomes a positive signal that the investigation process will be conducted thoroughly, transparently, and in accordance with applicable legal rules,” he said. Dave believes that with such steps, confidence will grow that law enforcement will proceed fairly, thereby maintaining and strengthening public trust in state institutions through concrete commitments. Dave also encouraged close coordination between the TNI, police, and relevant military and civilian judicial institutions, so that the investigation and trial processes can proceed openly. “This transparency is important to foster public confidence that justice is upheld, while also providing legal certainty for the victim and their family,” said Dave. The TNI is expected to demonstrate exemplary conduct through high discipline and professionalism. “Thus, in the future, public trust in state institutions can be further maintained and developed sustainably,” he added.