Mahfud MD Didn't Expect MKMK To Be That Brave, Removed Anwar Usman Out Of Expectations

Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Mahfud MD (DOK ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Mahfud MD spoke about the decision of the Honorary Council of the Constitutional Court (MKMK) which removed Anwar Usman from his position as Chairman of the Constitutional Court (MK). Mahfud did not expect the Constitutional Court to be that brave in passing the verdict. "Good, I am beyond my real expectations. That MKMK can be that brave," said Mahfud after attending the National Coordination Meeting for Election Organizers in 2023 in Jakarta, Wednesday, November 8. Initially, this vice presidential candidate suspected that the MKMK only imposed a severe warning or suspension for 6 months could not lead the trial at the Constitutional Court. However, the reality is different. In fact, continued Mahfud, MKMK Chairman Jimly Asshiddiqie imposed a sanction of dismissal from the position of Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court during the reading of the verdict at the Constitutional Court Building of the Republic of Indonesia, Jakarta, last Tuesday. "It turned out that he was dismissed and was not allowed to lead the trial during the election. That's good, brave," said Mahfud. With the sanction of stopping, Anwar Usman has no right to run or be nominated as the leader of the Constitutional Court until his term ends. Anwar was also not allowed to lead the trial in the case of dispute over the results of the upcoming general election. With the sanction of dismissal, Anwar Usman could not appeal the dismissal from the position of chairman of the Constitutional Court.

"If you are fired for real, there is an appeal. However, if you are dismissed from your position with respect, it cannot be appealed. It is finished. Appealing is not only risky, it is possible that the judge of appeal will get wind," said Mahfud.