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Indonesia's Controversial Military Appointment Sparks Human Rights Alarm

5/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Indonesia is set to appoint Lieutenant General Djaka Budhi Utama, a man with a controversial past linked to the kidnapping of rights activists, to a significant position in the finance ministry. This decision underscores the military's growing power in governance, sparking alarm among human rights advocates about a looming return to authoritarian rule. Formalization of the appointment is anticipated on May 23.

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Story summary

Indonesia is set to appoint Lieutenant General Djaka Budhi Utama, a man with a controversial past linked to the kidnapping of rights activists, to a significant position in the finance ministry. This decision underscores the military's growing power in governance, sparking alarm among human rights advocates about a looming return to authoritarian rule. Formalization of the appointment is anticipated on May 23.