Amid growing concerns over the politicization of Indonesia’s legal system, the Nurcholish Madjid Society (NCMS) recently hosted a public discussion titled “Law as a Political Weapon,” addressing the alarming trends in selective law enforcement and the potential rise of authoritarianism.
Scholars highlight the decline in legal integrity, with law increasingly being used as a political tool to serve specific interests, according to recent discussions.
Professor Sulistyowati Irianto from the University of Indonesia expressed her concern over the degradation of Indonesia’s legal system, pointing to the corruption within high-level institutions like the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court. These bodies have been accused of nepotistic rulings under the guise of benefiting the youth, while the parliament is reportedly drafting regulations that could weaken democracy and restrict human rights.
Professor Franz Magnis Suseno of the Driyarkara School of Philosophy emphasized the importance of morality, ethics, and integrity for leadership in Indonesia. He noted the current challenge posed by the unethical behavior displayed by many political elites.
Franz Magniso stressed the need for continuous public discourse on ethics and proper governance to provide moral guidance for the public and political leaders alike, ensuring ethical conduct in leadership and governance.
The Nurcholish Madjid Society (NCMS) organized a public forum on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 titled “Law as a Political Weapon” in Jakarta to address these concerns.
The forum highlighted how political interests are shaping the creation and revision of laws, undermining the principle of legal supremacy. This selective enforcement and targeting of critical voices have raised fears of emerging authoritarian leadership, using law for personal or group political gain.
