Legal Challenges Mount Against Indonesia's New Criminal Code and Procedure

Immediate Controversy Following Enforcement

Indonesia's newly implemented Criminal Code (KUHP) and Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) have faced immediate legal scrutiny since their enforcement on January 2, 2026 ¹

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Source 3

https://aktual.kontan.co.id/news/belum-sebulan-berlaku-kuhp-dan-kuhap-baru-digugat-ramai-ramai-ke-mk

. The laws, established through Law No. 1/2023 and Law No. 20/2025, have sparked significant controversy among legal practitioners and the general public. Multiple lawsuits have been filed with the Constitutional Court, challenging various provisions of the new legislation ¹

Source 1

https://nasional.kontan.co.id/news/kuhap-dan-kuhp-baru-ramai-ramai-digugat-minta-mk-lakukan-uji-materiil

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Key Areas of Contention

1. Expanded Criminal Offenses: The new KUHP has broadened the definition of criminal offenses, particularly regarding extramarital relationships and cohabitation ²
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   https://nasional.kontan.co.id/news/berlaku-mulai-2-januari-2026-siapa-saja-yang-berhak-melaporkan-kasus-kumpul-kebo
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2. Legal Procedures: Changes in legal procedures under the new KUHAP have raised concerns about excessive authority granted to law enforcement agencies and limitations on legal counsel's role ³
   Source 3

   https://aktual.kontan.co.id/news/belum-sebulan-berlaku-kuhp-dan-kuhap-baru-digugat-ramai-ramai-ke-mk
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3. Protection of Minors: The new laws have introduced provisions aimed at enhancing protection for minors, marking a significant shift from previous legislation ²
   Source 2

   https://nasional.kontan.co.id/news/berlaku-mulai-2-januari-2026-siapa-saja-yang-berhak-melaporkan-kasus-kumpul-kebo
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Legal Challenges and Constitutional Court Proceedings

The first legal challenge was registered on January 6, 2026, under case number 10/PUU-XXIV/2026, specifically targeting the new KUHAP ¹

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Source 3

https://aktual.kontan.co.id/news/belum-sebulan-berlaku-kuhp-dan-kuhap-baru-digugat-ramai-ramai-ke-mk

. Petitioners argue that the new laws grant excessive powers to law enforcement while restricting the role of legal counsel. The Constitutional Court will now review these challenges, determining the constitutionality of the contested provisions.

Government's Position and Future Implications

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has clarified that the new KUHP limits the right to file complaints regarding extramarital affairs to spouses and parents, addressing some public concerns ²

. The government's stance emphasizes the need for legal adaptation to contemporary societal needs. The outcome of the Constitutional Court's review will significantly impact Indonesia's legal landscape and law enforcement practices.