Indonesia police allowed to hold civil posts sparks legal and political debate

Senior political analyst Boni Hargens called on the public to drop negative preconceptions about the Indonesian police (Polri) after a recent amendment to the Police Law permits active police personnel to occupy civil service positions in ministries and government agencies. He argued that such appointments are justified when they rely on technical competence, are based on genuine requests from ministries rather than coercion, and serve a constitutional role in strengthening democracy. Hargens cited Kapolri Listyo Sigit Prabowo, who said the rule is demand‑driven and not forced.

The amendment, embodied in Article 28A of the revised Police Law, has been sharply criticised by the Coalition for Civil Society Reform, which warns that it could lead to dual appointments and conflict with the People’s Consultative Assembly’s resolution on separating police functions from civil administration, as well as with Constitutional Court decision No. 114/PUU‑XXIII/2025. In response, Hargens suggested that opponents could seek a constitutional review of Article 28A before the Constitutional Court and ensure transparent, accountable placement mechanisms.