In Order To Have A Deterrent Effect, The Punishment For Corruptors Must Be Combined

Illustrated / VOI

JAKARTA - Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW) researcher Kurnia Ramadhana suggested a combination of punishments for corruption perpetrators to provide a deterrent effect.

"In ICW's view, there must be a combination of punishments to provide a deterrent effect. First, the maximum prison sentence, secondly, the fine must be high, and there must be additional penalties," said Kurnia Ramadhana, quoted by Antara, Wednesday, January 5.

He then explained the application of each of these forms of punishment so far in Indonesia. First, he said, the sentencing of corruptors was not maximized.

Then regarding penalties in the form of fines, according to him, the fines for corruptors regulated by Law Number 19 of 2019 concerning the Corruption Eradication Commission (Tipikor) are still below the fine value of the Narcotics Law and Terrorism Crimes.

"The fine under the Anti-Corruption Law is still low. The maximum is Rp. 1 billion. It is only contained in several articles, such as gratification and state financial losses. When compared to other laws, such as the Law on Narcotics and Terrorism, the figure is very unequal , said Kurnia Ramadhana.

He also presented the latest ICW data showing that of the 1,298 defendants who were not convicted of corruption, there were only six who were subject to a maximum fine. Furthermore, related to compensation money, said Kurnia Ramadhana, the total state losses caused by corrupt practices in 2020 reached Rp56 trillion. However, only Rp. 18 trillion was returned.

Referring to the additional criminal matter, Kurnia Ramadhana views that not all corruptors who are related to political parties or public positions are given additional criminal penalties in the form of revocation of political rights.

Closing his presentation, Kurnia Ramadhana​​​​​​ delivered a combination of punishments for corruption perpetrators that can provide a deterrent effect so that efforts to eradicate corruption in Indonesia can be optimized.