Amendment should be based on national consensus, DPR deputy speaker says

Jakarta, InfoPublik – The House of Representatives (DPR) deputy speaker Fahri Hamzah stated that the constitution amendment should not be based on practical considerations, but on national consensus.

He explained that in some countries, amendment was conducted by the referendum in which the government asked the people’s approval on the amendment.

“So, amendment should not be based on simple and practical considerations. There should be a national consensus first,” said Fahri answering journalists’ questions at DPR building, Thursday (10/6).

He believed that although the amendment could be proposed by DPR, People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), or Regional Representatives Council (DPD) through the proposal mechanism, the amendment should be based on the President’s initiative for the sake of the nation. 

“In fact, the President has no comment on the amendment discourse. So, amendment is not going to happen soon,” he said.

He added that the amendment certainty is significant to prevent dispute in the future.

“When dispute on constitution emerges, this country will shatter. I believe every element of this nation is not willing such condition to happen. Therefore, all proposals should be compiled as one comprehensive study material,” he concluded. (Translator: Erik Limantara)