Corrupt Officials Released by the President of the Republic of Indonesia
Author: H. Dudung Badrun, SH.MH
Advocate
The news of Tom Limbong’s release from the judicial process by the President of the Republic of Indonesia through abolition, as well as Hasto’s release through amnesty, was widely reported in various print, electronic, and online media.
This is not unusual because:
First, Article 14 of the 1945 Constitution states, “The President grants pardons, amnesties, abolitions, and rehabilitation.”
Second, the President has released suspects/defendants/convicts of corruption in the history of the Indonesian state.
a. President Sukarno released Ruslan Abdul Gani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on suspicion of corruption along with Lie HOK Thai, Deputy Director of the State Printing Office.
And President Soekarno released Kiai Haji Wahib Wahab Wahab, Minister of Religious Affairs, who was sentenced to 10 years in prison and a fine of Rp 15 million for violating foreign exchange regulations.
b. President SBY released Saukani, former Governor of East Kalimantan, convicted of corruption.
Hopefully, this will open up opportunities for others, besides Tom Limbong and Hasto, who have been victims of criminalization/imprisonment in corruption cases that are perceived as unfair, as indicated by misguided judicial practices.
With the President’s right to pardons, amnesties, abolitions, and rehabilitation, truth and justice can be achieved. enforced in the Republic of Indonesia
Jakarta, August 4, 2025
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