SYL Nangis Reads Pleidoi, Surprised To Be Accused Of Corruption To Confessing To Flooded Houses

Former Minister of Agriculture, Syahrul Yasin Limpo or SYL underwent a TPPU trial that ensnared him at the Central Jakarta District Court, Monday, June 3. (Rizky A-VOI)

JAKARTA - Former Minister of Agriculture (Mentan) Syahrul Yasin Limpo or SYL cried when reading a memorandum of defense or plea. Especially when discussing his condition which was wronged in cases of alleged extortion and acceptance of gratuities within the Ministry of Agriculture (Kementan).

SYL's voice shook when he emphasized that he had never blackmailed his subordinates at the Ministry of Agriculture. In fact, he said, if there was any intention it could have been done for a long time or when he served as a regional official.

"Why was it that when I served as Minister against me that I was accused of corruption? If I really intended to do that, I would have done it since I was in the regional office," said SYL during a trial at the Jakarta Corruption Court, Friday, July 5.

"And if this happened with the span of my career as a long bureaucrat, I would definitely have become one of those who have a lot of wealth," he continued.

After conveying this, SYL had breathed and remained silent for a moment. Then, declared the state officials who were poor.

This is evidenced by the condition of his house in Makassar. His house is said to be still flooded when it rains heavily.

"My house, if it is flooded, it is still flooded by the father in Makassar, that's why I live in BTN," said SYL.

"I'm not used to being sore about people, show me ever?" he continued.

SYL was charged with imprisonment for 12 years and a fine of Rp. 500 million, subsidiary to 6 months in prison.

The former Minister of Agriculture was also charged with paying replacement money of around Rp44 billion and US$ 30 thousand.

The claim was given because the prosecutor believed that SYL violated Article 12 letter e in conjunction with Article 18 of the Republic of Indonesia Law Number 31 of 1999 concerning the Eradication of Corruption in conjunction with Article 55 paragraph (1) of the 1st Criminal Code (KUHP) in conjunction with Article 64 paragraph (1) of the Criminal Code.