Indonesia's Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai urges civilian appointments in senior police posts

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has proposed amending the 2002 Police Law to allow professional civilians to fill senior non‑operational positions in the Indonesian National Police (Polri). He says roles such as administration, finance, internal oversight, human resources, digital transformation and organizational management – comparable to mid‑level or eselon I posts – could be open to qualified civilians. Pigai argues the change would balance the current practice where police officers hold civilian posts, enhance professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights, and align Indonesia with democratic practices in other countries. He calls for a participatory revision process involving the government, DPR, academia, NGOs and other stakeholders.

A draft of the same law also suggests extending the retirement age of the police chief (Kapolri) from 60 to up to 63 years, subject to presidential discretion. The proposals are under review by the DPR’s working committee.

Pigai emphasized, "If police officers can hold civilian posts, then civilians should also be able to hold senior police posts," underscoring his view that merit‑based appointments will improve police governance.