Inappropriately Echoed During The Pandemic, Stop The Three-term President's Narrative That Violates The Constitution

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION/BETWEEN

JAKARTA - Law expert at Al-Azhar University Indonesia, Suparji Ahmad, criticized the re-emergence of the discourse on a three-term presidential term. According to him, the narrative is not appropriate to be echoed in the midst of the condition of the nation which is currently fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Speaking of that is indeed the right of expression in a democratic climate. But it would not be appropriate if it was conveyed at this time considering that Indonesia is trying to deal with COVID-19," said Suparji, Monday, June 21.

According to him, the discourse of a three-term president does not yet have positive legal legitimacy. This is because the constitution has mandated that the presidential term of office is limited to two or two terms.

Suparji explained in Article 9 of the 1945 Constitution that the President and Vice President hold office for five years and thereafter can be re-elected in the same office, only for one term.

"So the current three-term president is not in accordance with the constitution," said Suparji.

Because it collides with the constitution, said Suparji, it is natural that the majority of people reject the discourse. In fact, the issues circulating on social media can be investigated whether they contain elements of Article 15 or 15 of Law Number 1946 regarding the spread of fake news that causes trouble.

"Because the constitution clearly states that the positions of president and vice president can only be held for 2 terms. But how come it is announced to be nominated again," he said.

Therefore, Suparji hopes for academics, researchers and political activists to narrate according to the constitution and good political theory. Therefore, the false narrative needs to be stopped immediately.

“Academics are tasked with rectifying narratives that are contrary to the constitution. It's not actually in the name of the people to violate it," he concluded.