Expert Calls for Strict Assessment in Amnesty Plan for Inmates Joining Reserve Force

Legal expert from Jenderal Soedirman University, Hibnu Nugroho, has stated that the government’s plan to grant amnesty to inmates under 35 years old who join the reserve component (komcad) programme must be based on strict assessments. He emphasised that the amnesty should be supported by clear parameters, including the type of criminal offence, the individual’s character, and their psychological condition, to prevent the policy from creating new problems. “Amnesty means the abolition of punishment. We must carefully examine which crimes are being pardoned,” he said when contacted from Purwokerto on Thursday. Hibnu acknowledged that the government’s objective of linking amnesty with rehabilitation through the reserve component programme is commendable. However, he urged the Minister of Immigration and Corrections to enforce a rigorous selection process for inmates who will receive amnesty and join the programme. He noted that while the policy could help reduce prison overcrowding, it must be applied selectively. “The goal is good, including reducing overcapacity in prisons. But it must be selective, considering the type of crime, the individual’s character, and their psychological state. Do not let this policy backfire,” he added.