Indonesia's Constitutional Court has annulled articles of the criminal code that punished insults against the government and state institutions, ruling that they restrict freedom of expression, reports infohub.kz.
The court found Articles 240 and 241 of the revised criminal code unconstitutional. The decision is final and binding, meaning police and prosecutors can no longer apply the struck-down provisions.
One article provided for up to 18 months in prison for publicly insulting the government or state institutions. Disseminating such material, including online, could carry up to three years. Harsher penalties were allowed if the publication led to mass unrest.
The protected entities included the government, parliament, the Supreme Court, the Constitutional Court, and other state bodies. The provisions were part of the criminal code adopted in 2023 and took effect on January 2, 2026.
The justices noted that the term "insult" was too broad, allowing law enforcement to treat criticism, political statements, satire, or public assessments of government performance as criminal.
"State institutions do not have feelings—they cannot be praised, criticized, or insulted," the court's ruling said.
The court argued that keeping the disputed articles posed a threat of criminal prosecution for legitimate criticism and could deter citizens from publicly expressing their opinions.
The challenge was brought by nine students. The court fully granted their petition, declaring both articles void.
According to Bloomberg, no criminal cases have been reported under the provisions since they took effect. However, rights advocates note that other laws remain in place that could be used against government critics.