This view was shared by Deputy Minister of State Secretary Juri Ardiantoro at a press conference at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Friday.
“Mr. President will always resort to policies, including those with political significance, that promote unity and integrity. He will grant an abolition, an amnesty, or enact other measures that can help strengthen the bond between all elements of the nation,” he told reporters.
The deputy minister underlined that President Prabowo believes granting legal relief to the two figures is crucial for easing public concerns and preserving national unity.
He remarked that the clemencies, which were also granted to over one thousand other convicts, demonstrate the government’s commitment to equality as the country approaches its 80th Independence Day anniversary.
“All citizens have the right to equal treatment. This year, in commemoration of Indonesia’s 80th anniversary, Mr. President granted an abolition and an amnesty to the mentioned figures and others who meet the criteria for clemency,” he elaborated.
At a press conference in Jakarta on Thursday night (July 31), Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas confirmed that he initiated the recommendation to award clemencies to the former minister and the senior PDIP figure at the president’s discretion.
“I signed and sent a letter suggesting the amnesty and abolition to Mr. President,” he told the media at the Parliamentary Complex.
He also stressed that the clemencies aim to maintain public order and foster a stronger sense of unity among all segments of society.
On the same occasion, House of Representatives (DPR) Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad stated that the parliament had approved the president’s request for legal relief for Lembong and Hasto.
Lembong was sentenced to four years and six months in prison for corruption in a sugar importation case, while Hasto received a 3.5-year sentence for bribery related to a legislative election case involving fugitive Harun Masiku.
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Translator: Mentari D/Genta T, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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