Inauguration Day: Call for Stronger Legislative Action on Human Rights Issues

He condemned the recent decision by the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) to remove former President Suharto’s name from a 1998 decree aimed at combating corruption, collusion, and nepotism, characterizing it as an affront to victims of human rights violations during his 32-year rule. He pointed out that today marks the anniversary of the October 1 Movement, a tragic historical event marked by mass killings.

“The new DPR must take responsibility for addressing past human rights violations as mandated by Law No. 26 of 2000 on Human Rights Courts. They must urge the President to establish ad hoc human rights courts for cases such as the Trisakti and Semanggi tragedies, the 1998 riots, and various incidents from Aceh to Papua,” Hamid asserted.

He also called for the DPR to ensure justice for victims of human rights abuses linked to national strategic projects affecting indigenous communities in areas like Rempang, Wadas, and Mandalika.

“Accountability and transparency in decision-making processes are crucial. Our research on the procurement of surveillance equipment by the police and the National Cyber and Crypto Agency revealed a lack of transparency, highlighting the need for DPR oversight,” he added.

He reiterated that the DPR must hold security agencies accountable and advocate for serious reforms to ensure equitable legal protections for all citizens. (Uki Ruknuddin)