"President Prabowo made this decision out of his commitment to safeguarding the integrity and interests of the nation," he noted in a statement cited in Jakarta on Saturday.
The lawmaker opined that the president's clemency policy could serve as a catalyst for reconciliation among political figures and factions in the country, rallying all elements of society to collaborate for national growth and development.
In addition, he also appreciated Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR) Sufmi Dasco Ahmad for supporting the president's decision.
"Professor Dasco has demonstrated genuine concern for the importance of upholding justice while taking national interests into consideration," Akbar remarked.
Earlier, on Thursday night (July 31), Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas confirmed that he initiated the recommendation for granting clemencies to the former minister and the PDIP figure at the president’s discretion.
Related news: Tom Lembong's lawyer praises President's clemency decision
"I signed and sent a letter suggesting the amnesty and abolition to Mr. President," he told the media at the Parliamentary Complex.
He assured the public that the government made the decision with good intentions, notably to maintain national unity amid political differences.
The minister also mentioned a subjective aspect, noting that the clemencies can be seen as recognition for Lembong’s and Hasto’s contributions to the country.
"The two figures have made achievements and contributions to the republic," he remarked.
On the same occasion, DPR Deputy Speaker Dasco stated that the parliament had approved the president’s request for an abolition for Lembong and an amnesty for Hasto.
The former minister was sentenced to four years and six months in prison and fined Rp750 million (around US$46 thousand) for his role in a sugar import corruption case, with an additional six-month jail term as an alternative.
Meanwhile, the senior figure of the once-ruling party was pronounced guilty of bribery related to a legislative election case involving fugitive Harun Masiku. He received a 3.5-year sentence and must pay a Rp250 million fine or face another three months behind bars.
Related news: Lembong, Kristiyanto walk free after presidential pardon
Translator: Walda M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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