Yusril Make Sure The Bali Nine Draft Waits For Australia's Response, Prisoners Are Targeted To Move Before Christmas

BADUNG - Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correction Yusril Ihza Mahendra said President Prabowo Subianto wanted five Bali Nine convicts to be transferred to Australia before Christmas Day 2024.

Minister Yusril explained that his party had discussed with the Australian Government regarding the death row convict Bali Nine and had also officially sent a draft practice agreement and had been received by the Australian Ambassador.

"And he told me he would discuss this draft internally. And he would inform us as soon as possible. If the Australian Government approves or wants some modifications or amendments, we are ready to discuss finalizing the draft. If they have received it, the transfer from Bali Nine is just a matter of time," said Yusril, Thursday, December 5.

Yusril explained that President Prabowo Subianto told himself that it was possible for the five Bali Nine inmates to be transferred to Australia before Christmas 2024.

"President Prabowo Subianto told me if possible we can transfer them this December. Specifically, Mr. Prabowo told me if possible, before Christmas. So now we are working hard to discuss this topic to be completed," he said.

In addition, regarding the transfer there is also no timeline or deadline and currently it depends on the Australian Government.

"No, we don't have a timeline. President Prabowo told me if possible we can transfer prisoners this December. But for the Australian Government, it depends on the completion of the draft we have sent to them," he said.

Minister Yusril also emphasized that the transfer of Bali Nine convicts to Australia was not related to the exchange of prisoners between Australia and Indonesia.

"No, this is not an exchange of prisoners. But the transfer of prisoners is based on reciprocals. In the same case, if the Government of Indonesia asks the Government of Australia to return Indonesian prisoners in Australia, they have the authority to consider it," he said.

"This is only good intentions from President Prabowo, it is not even based on written regulations. But we can find a solution for this by negotiating with the two countries," said Yusril.