Asset Confiscation Bill Could Threaten Human Rights, Minister Warns

Jakarta – Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has called on the House of Representatives to exercise extreme caution when drafting the upcoming Asset Forfeiture Bill. He warned that poorly designed rules could lead to violations of citizens' fundamental rights. Pigai stressed that the bill, which aims to allow the state to seize assets linked to criminal activity, must be balanced against legal protections for property owners. He urged lawmakers to include strict safeguards to prevent abuse. The Minister’s comments come as parliament prepares to deliberate on the legislation. Pigai emphasized that the process must follow clear legal principles, ensuring that any confiscation is based on a final and binding court ruling. He also reminded legislators that the burden of proof should remain with the state, not the accused. Without such measures, he argued, the law could be misused against innocent parties. The Asset Forfeiture Bill is part of a broader government effort to combat corruption and serious crime. However, Pigai’s intervention highlights the tension between law enforcement objectives and the protection of individual rights.