Pro-Kontra Rencana Amandemen UUD 1945

Summary

The transcript discusses the proposed amendments to Indonesia's 1945 Constitution, highlighting a division among political elites regarding their necessity and implications. Chairman Bambang Soesatyo indicates that changes will be limited to specific articles, aiming to enhance the MPR's authority over national guidelines. Concerns are raised about potential presidential term extensions and the impact on Indonesia's democratic structure. Experts caution that amendments should not serve a select few and emphasize maintaining the president's authority, warning against undermining democracy. Overall, the discourse reflects a critical examination of the balance of power within the government.

Takeaways

• 📜 The amendment of the 1945 Constitution is a mandate from previous MPR leadership, continuing with the current MPR.
• 🔍 There is a significant debate among political elites regarding the amendment, with mixed opinions on its necessity.
• 🗣️ Chairman of MPR RI, Bambang Soesatyo, emphasized that any changes to the constitution will be limited to a few articles.
• 🏛️ Proposed amendments include granting MPR additional powers to set national policy guidelines.
• 🛡️ The existence of policy guidelines (PPHN) will not reduce the government's authority in national development planning.
• 📅 PPHN is intended to provide ideological and constitutional support for strategic planning documents like the RPJMN.
• 🔄 Legal expert Asep Warlan Yusuf suggested that PPHN can be established through MPR's TAP without necessitating constitutional amendments.
• ⚠️ There are concerns that constitutional amendments could pave the way for extending the presidential term, which may affect Indonesia's democratic structure.
• 🚫 Experts argue that amending the constitution contradicts the current presidential system, suggesting it could elevate MPR's position over the president.
• 🗳️ The amendment process requires a minimum of one-third approval from MPR members, or 237 votes out of 711 total members.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the amendment to the 1945 Constitution discussed in the transcript?

The amendment aims to allow the MPR to establish the outline of state direction (GBHN) while ensuring that it does not diminish the government's authority to create national development plans.

Who mentioned the limited nature of the changes to the 1945 Constitution?

Bambang Soesatyo, the Chairman of MPR RI, referred to the limited scope of changes to the Constitution during a speech at the annual joint session on August 16, 2018.

What does PPHN stand for, and what role does it play in governance?

PPHN stands for 'Pokok-Pokok Haluan Negara,' which serves as an ideological and constitutional framework guiding the preparation of national strategic documents and plans.

What concerns were raised regarding the amendment process?

Concerns were raised that the amendment could serve the interests of a few groups and potentially lead to a revision of the democratic system, particularly regarding the presidential term limits.

What is the legal perspective on the MPR's authority to amend the Constitution according to Asep Warlan Yusuf?

Asep Warlan Yusuf stated that the MPR does not need to amend the Constitution to establish GBHN, emphasizing the importance of avoiding changes that benefit a select few.

How does the proposed amendment affect the balance of power between the MPR and the President?

If the MPR is granted authority to establish GBHN, it could position the MPR above the President, which Saiful Mujani argues would undermine the current presidential system and democratic principles.

What specific articles in the Constitution are proposed for amendment?

The planned amendments include adding two clauses to Article 3 and Article 23, and one clause to Article 363 to grant the MPR authority to change and set the PPHN.

What is the required approval for amending the Constitution according to Article 37?

To amend the Constitution, a minimum of one-third of the total MPR members, or 237 votes out of 711, is required for approval.

What implications does the amendment process have for the presidential election cycle?

There are fears that the amendment might create a pathway for extending presidential terms, affecting the current election cycle and the democratic framework.

What role does the GBHN play in relation to the President's development plans?

The GBHN will serve as a guideline for the President in executing national development plans, ensuring alignment with the state's strategic direction.