Indonesia : House Leader's Actions Stir Controversy

The House of Representatives is embroiled in another controversy as Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, a key ally of President Prabowo Subianto, is taking a leading role in clarifying government policies, raising concerns about the separation of powers in Indonesia's democracy.

Dasco's involvement comes after the House faced allegations of overreach for revising internal rules to include a provision that allows them to "periodically evaluate" government appointees.

This change makes it easier for the House to dismiss government officials, potentially circumventing laws that protect the independence of state institutions.

Pro-democracy advocates are worried that Dasco's actions blur the lines between the legislative and executive branches.

As a longtime aide to Prabowo, Dasco has been central to the Gerindra Party's strategic planning.

Last week, he played a prominent role in communicating with the public after Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia's decision to ban small retailers from selling subsidized cooking gas, which caused shortages and public anger.

Observers are concerned that Dasco's actions could lead to "constitutional chaos" by undermining the checks and balances designed to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful