Here's Why Generals Are Appointed as Acting Regional Heads

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian appointed the head of the Central Sulawesi State Intelligence Agency (BIN) Brigadier General Andi Chandra As'aduddin as the acting regent of West Seram in Maluku. Andi's appointment is stated in the Home Affairs Ministerial Decree No. 131.81-1164/2022, issued on May 12, 2022. The government tasks him with maintaining the regency's security, facilitating the upcoming general elections (Pemilu) and regional head election (Pilkada) of West Seram Regency in 2024.

Andi's appointment is stirring controversy because it violates Article 47 of Law No. 34/2004 on the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). It states that TNI active members can only hold civilian positions after resigning or retiring from the force. In response to this, Coordinating Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Minister Mahfud MD admitted that he had not been noticed on the matter despite agreeing with Article 47 of Law No. 34/2004. "Based on the law, it is not allowed. I will check later," Mahfud said on Monday.