The clarification is intended to prevent family members, supporters, or volunteers from filing complaints on behalf of the head of state without direct authorization.
Court Says New Rules Provide Greater Protection for Free Speech
Guntur also noted that the previous Criminal Code had allowed broader application of provisions concerning insults against the president, potentially creating risks for freedom of expression.
The new Criminal Code, by contrast, classifies the offenses as complaint-based offenses, meaning legal proceedings can only be initiated following an official complaint.
The judicial review petition was filed by 12 university students, who challenged several provisions of the Criminal Code on the grounds that they could potentially threaten freedom of expression and the principle of equality before the law.
