New judicial move

New judicial move

Thursday, April 1, 2004 is a historical day for Indonesia's judicial system because from that date on, the courts -- including the administrative courts -- fall under the auspices of the Supreme Court, instead of the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights.

The Supreme Court is now fully responsible for both operational and administrative affairs regarding judges. In the past, the Supreme Court was in charge of technical (legal) matters in the course of the judges' daily tasks, while the ministry was in charge of administrative affairs, including the recruitment, promotion and demotion of judges, as well as financial affairs.

In the 1980s, many urged that the judges be placed under the supervision of the Supreme Court to make them more independent. Judges' independence is absolutely vital, especially in disputes between civilians and the government. There were times when the executive power interfered in court proceedings. Of course, interference in legal proceedings can also come from those with money or groups with "special power".

Therefore, the new policy is obviously welcomed by many.

The question is what the courts will be like under the auspices of the Supreme Court. This is especially relevant in regard to supervising judges and the courts.

There have been indications of bribery in many verdicts handed down by judges, which has created controversy.

We just hope that the Supreme Court can prove to the public that it can improve the image and professionalism of judges. We don't want to see the new policy result in the Supreme Court's monopoly of judicial power and arrogance.

-- Suara Karya, Jakarta