Independent Report – Former Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY). Recently shared his views on the reform of the Indonesian Armed Forces (ABRI). In an exclusive interview with Liputan6 SCTV’s Editor-in-Chief, Retno Pinasti. SBY reflected on his role as the Chairman of the ABRI Reform Team.
During the 1997 general election, the political landscape was limited to only three parties. Golkar, the United Development Party (PPP), and the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI). SBY emphasized that ABRI was the first institution to initiate reform, followed by a broader national reform movement.
“At that time, General Wiranto, who was the Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). Appointed me as the Chairman of the ABRI Reform Team,” SBY stated. Throughout his two-year tenure in this role, he visited universities, engaged with reform activists. And also listened to the aspirations of the people.
As a result of these efforts, ABRI, later restructured into TNI and Polri, was compelled to implement significant reforms. SBY stressed the importance of ensuring that TNI and Polri do not revert to the dual-function system of the New Order era. Where active-duty military personnel could participate in practical politics and hold civilian positions.
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“We must not allow ABRI, now known as TNI and Polri, to repeat past mistakes that history has corrected. We have to respect democracy, justice, and freedom. This is my perspective,” SBY asserted. Currently serving as the Chairman of the Upper Council of the Democratic Party, he remains committed to advocating for these principles.
Previously, SBY had issued a firm reminder to active-duty TNI personnel to refrain from engaging in practical politics. He emphasized that it is against the principles of TNI reform for active military members to involve themselves in politics or occupy civilian positions.
“During my time in the military, TNI members were strictly prohibited from entering politics. That was one of the key doctrines we established,” SBY stated during a gathering with 38 regional leaders of the Democratic Party on February 23, 2025.
Reflecting on his military career, SBY highlighted the fundamental value of maintaining TNI’s political neutrality. As part of military reform, he and his team implemented policies requiring active-duty TNI members to retire before engaging in government or political roles.
“We enforced this rule strictly. I was deeply inspired by the principle that if you are still an active general, you should not be involved in politics. If you want to enter politics, you must retire first,” SBY firmly stated.
This principle remains central to his vision of separating military affairs from practical politics. By maintaining this distinction, he believes that the integrity and neutrality of TNI can be preserved, ensuring its role remains focused on national defense and security rather than political engagement.
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