Juliari Batubara Asks To Be Released, KPK: We Are Optimistic That The Claims Will Be Proven

Juliari Coal/DOC ANTARA

JAKARTA - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is optimistic about the charges brought against the defendant in the COVID-19 social assistance bribery case in Greater Jakarta, Juliari Peter Batubara, a former social minister.

This optimism was conveyed by Acting KPK Spokesperson for Enforcement, Ali Fikri, in response to Juliari's request to be acquitted in the case.

"KPK is optimistic that what has been described in the indictment will be proven and the panel of judges will grant the public prosecutor's order," Ali told reporters, Tuesday, August 10.

He said the evidence in the description of the KPK prosecutor's juridical analysis was also in accordance with the facts of the trial.

"So we believe the panel of judges in their consideration will take over the legal facts," said Ali.

As previously reported, former Social Minister Juliari Batubara asked the panel of judges to be acquitted of all charges. "To the Honorable Panel of Judges, please end our suffering by acquitting me of all charges," said Juliari Batubara in a memorandum of defense (pleidoi) read out at the trial at the Jakarta Corruption Court, Monday, August 9.

"Our prayers are that the kindness of the Honorable Panel of Judges will be commensurately rewarded from God Almighty," he added.

Juliari mentioned that whatever the judge's decision will have a big impact on him and his family. The former PDI-P politician also mentioned the condition of his son who is still young and needs a father figure.

"In my mind, only the Honorable Panel of Judges can put an end to the mental and physical suffering of my family, who have suffered not only humiliation, but also being blasphemed for something they don't understand. The storm of hatred and blasphemy against me and my family will end hanging with the decision of the Honorable Panel of Judges," said Juliari.

In this case, Juliari was charged with 11 years in prison for alleged bribery in the procurement of social assistance (bansos) COVID-19. He was also charged with a fine of Rp. 500 million.