Pigai Warns Asset Forfeiture Bill Must Not Undermine Citizens' Rights
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has reminded the House of Representatives (DPR RI) that the Asset Forfeiture Bill must be formulated in a measured manner while ensuring the protection of human rights, particularly the right to ownership.
In a statement in Jakarta on Thursday, Pigai expressed his support for the formation of the Asset Forfeiture Law as an instrument to strengthen the eradication of corruption and extraordinary crimes. However, he noted that the authority to seize assets must have clear limits and be executed based on legal provisions and court decisions.
“Formulating a Law must consider the impact if it is misused to coerce the people. As the Minister of Human Rights, it is my legal duty to remind the House of Representatives to be measured in its formulation,” said Pigai.
He emphasised that the protection of property rights must be a primary consideration in the drafting of the regulation. According to Pigai, Indonesia is a state governed by law (rechtsstaat); therefore, the seizure of property must be grounded in law and reinforced by court rulings.
“If the Asset Forfeiture Law targets not only corruptors but also the general public, on what basis would the property rights of the people be seized based solely on a legislative mandate rather than a court decision?” he asked.
Pigai argued that the targets of asset forfeiture policies should be directed towards corruptors, mafias, and perpetrators of specific crimes, including narcotics, terrorism, human trafficking, and smuggling. “Do not target innocent citizens,” he added.
He further noted that the drafting of the Asset Forfeiture Bill needs to account for the potential for abuse of authority, including against members of the community who may not be suspects or involved in criminal activity. Consequently, Pigai requested that the provisions within the Bill establish clear limits on authority and provide legal protection mechanisms for asset owners. He expressed hope that the regulation would strengthen crime eradication while simultaneously guaranteeing respect for and the protection of human rights.