What Does the Term 'Makzul' Mean in Government? Like the Impeachment Case of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol

Kapanlagi.com - On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, history recorded an important moment when South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was officially impeached. This decision was made after a series of controversies, including the implementation of emergency military policies that faced much criticism.

The South Korean Parliament did not remain silent; they proposed the impeachment which was then processed according to applicable laws, ending Yoon's term earlier than expected.

The term "makzul" that often appears in discussions regarding impeachment has a deep history and meaning. Although it is often used in political and legal contexts, interestingly, this term is not explicitly written in the Indonesian constitution.

Compiled by Kapanlagi.com from various sources, here is an explanation of the meaning of the word makzul, its history, and its relevance in governance.

1. What is Makzul?

In the Great Dictionary of the Indonesian Language (KBBI), the term "makzul" refers to the action of "ceasing to hold office" or "stepping down," which has Arabic roots and is often used in the context of government.

This term reflects an important moment when a leader, whether a president or a king, is compelled or voluntarily relinquishes their position of power.

Interestingly, according to the official website of the Constitutional Court, makzul is comparable to the concept of impeachment in Western legal systems, which not only encompasses political aspects but also serves as a legal mechanism to ensure that public officials are held accountable for every action they take.

2. Makzul in the Indonesian Legal System

In Indonesia, the word makzul is not explicitly mentioned in the 1945 Constitution. However, a similar mechanism is regulated in Articles 7A and 7B of the 1945 Constitution.

"The President and/or Vice President may be dismissed during their term of office by the People’s Consultative Assembly upon the proposal of the House of Representatives, either if it is proven that they have committed legal violations in the form of treason against the state, corruption, bribery, other serious crimes, or disgraceful acts, or if it is proven that they no longer meet the requirements as President and/or Vice President," states Article 7A.

This article mentions that the President and/or Vice President can be dismissed by the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) upon the proposal of the House of Representatives (DPR) if proven to have violated the law, such as corruption, treason against the state, or disgraceful acts.

The impeachment process must begin with an examination by the Constitutional Court. If proven, only then can the DPR proceed with the process to the MPR for a final decision. This indicates that impeachment in Indonesia involves a balance between political and legal aspects.

3. The Origin of the Term Makzul

Former Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, Jimly Asshiddiqie, revealed that the term "makzul," which comes from Arabic, means "removed from office."

In the realm of modern governance, makzul refers to the legal and political processes that allow high-ranking officials to be removed from their positions due to legal violations or unfitness.

Jimly emphasized that makzul is an important part of the checks and balances mechanism in a democratic system, aimed at preventing the executive power from acting arbitrarily without strict oversight from the legislative and judicial branches.

4. The Relevance of Impeachment in Indonesia and the World

In various parts of the world, including Indonesia and South Korea, impeachment has become a focal point as an effort to uphold government accountability.

The case of Yoon Suk Yeol serves as a concrete example, where allegations of serious violations during his term triggered impeachment proceedings, demonstrating the importance of this mechanism in maintaining governmental integrity.

Although in Indonesia the term "makzul" is not explicitly stated in the constitution, the same spirit lives on through procedures that ensure public officials are held accountable according to applicable laws.

5. Why is the Term Makzul Important?

Makzul is not just a legal or political jargon, but also reflects the core essence of democracy itself. This process ensures that no individual, even the highest officials of the state, is above the law.

By understanding the meaning and mechanisms behind it, society can better appreciate the importance of accountability in carrying out a clean and integrity-based government.

6. What does makzul mean according to KBBI?

According to the Great Dictionary of the Indonesian Language (KBBI), makzul means "to cease holding office" or "to abdicate."

7. Do makzul and impeachment have the same meaning?

Yes, the term makzul in the Indonesian context has a similar meaning to impeachment, which is the removal of a state official from their position.

8. What is the process of presidential impeachment in Indonesia?

The impeachment process begins with a proposal from the DPR submitted to the Constitutional Court. If proven, the DPR can request the MPR to make the final decision.

(kpl/rmt)