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Government-led ‘public discussions’ on revised Criminal Code mere formality, critics say
An alliance of civil groups attending Tuesday's forum interrupted the event in protest. They chanted “dissemination is not participation” before being escorted out of the room.
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University students protest proposed revisions to the Criminal Code in front of the House of Representatives on Sept. 23, 2019. (JP/Donny Fernando)
T
he government has begun what it describes as a series of “public discussions” on the controversial planned revisions to the Criminal Code, but civil groups say the meetings represent a “one-way street” and that policymakers are not open to making real changes to the bill.
The Communications and Information Ministry launched the series of meetings on Tuesday at the instruction of President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo in response to growing public opposition to the plan.
The event was attended by representatives of some law schools, student executive bodies, bar associations, religious groups, civil groups and youth organization Pemuda Pancasila, among other groups.
In his opening remarks, Law and Human Rights Minister Yasonna Laoly said that through the discussion, the government would ensure that members of the public were consulted and their opinions were accommodated.
“The public's understanding of [what is in the revised Criminal Code] is hoped to help smooth the deliberation process at the House of Representatives significantly and lead to the passage of the bill into law,” he said.
More such meetings are scheduled for the coming months in 11 cities, which will run parallel to the deliberations on the bill in the House.
Read also: Jokowi orders more public discussions on Criminal Code revision
