The Wire

The Indonesian Parliament has approved a Truth and Reconcilation panel to investigate human rights abuses in the country, particularly those committed during the 32 years of President Soeharto’s dictatorship. Modelled on the South African Truth and Reconciliation commission it will investigate atrocities that were committed, especially those by the Indonesian Military – the TNI and the Police forces. Although the panel will have no powers to prosecute or punish offenders, the TNI has objected saying that it will only harm national unity and re-open old wounds. Dr Damien Kingsbury, Senior Lecturer in International Development at Deakin University suggests that the process is President Megawati’s attempt to appear tough on human rights abuses without making people accountable.