Speaking at a ceremony in Jakarta on Monday marking the recovery of Rp13.2 trillion (nearly US$800 million) from a palm oil export corruption case, Prabowo recalled a controversial incident in which an elementary school student was arrested for allegedly stealing chickens.
"This case, which is absurd, is still fresh in my mind. You might also remember a similar case where a mother was apprehended for stealing plants. What happened to our legal enforcement?" Prabowo said.
At the Attorney General's Office (AGO) headquarters, he highlighted that he had even invited the child involved to his residence in Hambalang, West Java, to award them a scholarship.
Prabowo stressed the importance of law enforcers learning from such cases and urged them to show empathy toward ordinary citizens, especially those facing economic hardship.
"It is critical that we avoid unequal application of the law because this approach is cruel and unjust. We must defend and help the weak and underprivileged," he said, advocating for restorative justice in such cases.
He also reiterated the importance of holding the powerful accountable, stressing that justice must not be selective.
Noting the impact of digital transformation, Prabowo said it has become easier for citizens to voice complaints directly to the government.
"I have received many reports from the public. Although this is overwhelming, I have a responsibility to fight for the people and act on their concerns. I ask for your help to uphold justice and defend the weak," he told law enforcers.
Despite acknowledging challenges, Prabowo praised the AGO for its commitment to combating corruption, manipulation, and misconduct.
He expressed confidence that all law enforcement officers share the commitment to protecting Indonesia’s wealth and resources from misappropriation.
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Translator: Mentari D/Fathur R, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
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