Hendrik Yaputra, Jakarta – The Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS) has criticized President Prabowo Subianto for awarding Indonesia's second-highest civilian honor, the Bintang Republik Indonesia Utama, to retired general Abdullah Mahmud Hendropriyono, who has long been linked to serious human rights violations.
KontraS Coordinator Dimas Bagus Arya Saputra argued that the state should uphold a strict principle of zero tolerance toward individuals suspected of crimes against humanity.
"The state should truly implement a zero-tolerance principle towards anyone who has been, or is strongly suspected of being, involved in actions against the law and humanity," Dimas told Tempo on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.
He pointed to Article 2 of Law No. 20/2009 on Awards, Decorations, and Honorary Titles, which stresses the principles of humanity, justice, prudence, and transparency in selecting award recipients.
Hendropriyono's name has long been associated with the Talangsari massacre of 1989 in Lampung, where security forces clashed with the Warsidi group.
Then serving as Danrem 043/Garuda Hitam, Hendropriyono led a raid on a religious compound in Talangsari, resulting in at least 246 deaths and dozens of imprisonments, many without due process.
The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) investigation report cited his alleged involvement, though no court verdict has ever been issued.
Dimas emphasized that this lack of legal resolution does not erase Hendropriyono's alleged role.
"It is the state's obligation to continue pushing for a comprehensive resolution of past human rights violations," he said, warning that Prabowo's decision could be seen as permissive toward perpetrators.
"This is also the state's negligence in upholding human rights and fulfilling justice," Dimas added.
Despite the controversy, the government praised Hendropriyono for his contributions in defense and intelligence, citing his leadership in strategic operations and national security development.
The award was conferred at the State Palace in Jakarta, on Monday, August 25, 2025, where 141 individuals were honored for achievements in various fields.
State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has yet to respond to Tempo's request for comment on the criticism.