Activists in Indonesia have filed legal challenges against the country’s newly adopted criminal code, warning that it poses a serious threat to civil liberties and gives authorities sweeping powers with limited oversight.
The revised law, which is set to replace Indonesia’s colonial-era penal code, criminalises sex outside marriage and makes it illegal to insult the president, vice president, and other top officials.
Rights groups say the provisions could be used to restrict freedom of expression, privacy, and personal behaviour.
Several civil society organisations and legal advocates have petitioned the Constitutional Court to review the law, arguing that it violates Indonesia’s constitution and international human rights commitments.
President Joko Widodo’s administration has said it is “grateful” for public criticism and maintains that the reforms are intended to reflect Indonesian values and strengthen the legal system.
Government officials have also insisted that safeguards will be put in place to prevent abuse.
However, critics describe the law as a “low point” for democracy in Southeast Asia’s largest economy, warning it could be used to silence dissent and target political opponents.
The court is expected to hear the challenges in the coming months, with its ruling likely to determine whether the controversial provisions remain in force.
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