Wiranto belittles critics of bill on state security
Wiranto belittles critics of bill on state security
JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Defense and Security Gen. Wiranto
lambasted on Wednesday critics of the bill on state security and
civilian militia, arguing that much of the opposition was based
merely on undue suspicion and a lack of understanding of the
bill's objectives.
Wiranto, who is also Indonesian Military (TNI) chief, also
blasted demands to postpone the deliberation of the controversial
bill, contending that the issue was being used for individual
political interests.
He urged critics to carefully study the bill before voicing
their opposition, saying he believed many people condemned the
bill without truly understanding its substance.
"Their reactions are based on voracious distrust and fear that
this bill is only a part of a plan and systematic plot to
strengthen the government's position and TNI's domination,"
Wiranto told the House of Representative's committee deliberating
the details of the bill.
Major political parties, and the Indonesian Democratic Party
(PDI) faction in the House, have demanded the bill's deliberation
be postponed until the new House is installed in October.
The bill grants the president the power to declare a state of
emergency in troubled territories. The president would also be
allowed to delegate his or her authority to the military, which
would then be given unlimited power in cracking down on threats
to state security.
The military would be authorized to carry out investigations
and raids, and take over all mail and telecommunications
facilities. In a state of emergency, a ban or limitation on
street demonstrations, print and electronic media would also be
allowed.
Under the bill, the military would also be given full
authority to prevent individuals from entering or leaving the
country, isolate "troubled individuals and areas" and set
curfews.
"Many people claim the bill would be used to crush and quell
aspirations which differ from those of the ruler," Wiranto said.
According to him, the state security bill is merely the
implementation of People's Consultative Assembly decree No. 10.
Wiranto said the bill was also meant to replace Law No.
23/1959 on a state of emergency, and government regulation No.
6/1960 on military assistance, which he said were no longer
appropriate.
"If the (old) law is maintained it will severely affect our
democracy and human rights," Wiranto said, as quoted by Antara.
(prb)