Jakarta, en.SERU.co.id — Lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea has stirred debate after claiming that investigators must secure presidential approval before naming former Chief Public Prosecutor for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah as a suspect.
Hotman argued that Febrie deserves special consideration due to his significant contributions to the Prabowo administration, particularly through the Task Force for Forest Area Management (Satgas PKH). According to Hotman, Febrie helped recover state assets worth around Rp430 trillion, including Rp300 trillion from forest-related efforts and Rp130 trillion in prevented losses within a single year.
No Legal Basis for Presidential Approval, Says DPR Lawmaker
The statement drew a firm response from Rudianto Lallo, a member of the House of Representatives (DPR) Commission III. He stressed there is no constitutional or legal requirement for investigators to seek the President’s permission before designating anyone — including former prosecutors — as a suspect.
“Indonesia is a nation of law where every citizen stands equal before the law,” Rudianto said, citing Article 27 paragraph (1) and Article 28D paragraph (1) of the 1945 Constitution, which guarantee equal treatment and legal certainty for all.
He also pointed to Constitutional Court Decision No. 15/PUU-XXIII/2025 on the Prosecutor’s Office Law, which limits procedural protections for prosecutors and should not hinder law enforcement. As long as sufficient preliminary evidence exists, the process must move forward without special approvals, he added.
“Handling corruption cases involving law enforcement officials is part of building a clean, transparent, and accountable government,” Rudianto emphasized.
Read Also:
Prabowo Urges TNI Polri to Support Indonesia Food and Energy Self-Sufficiency
Hotman: It’s Disrespectful to the President
Hotman maintained his position, describing the move against Febrie as disrespectful to the head of state. He suggested journalists directly ask the National Police Chief (Kapolri) whether presidential approval was sought before proceeding with the case.
During a marathon 10-hour questioning at the Attorney General’s Office, Febrie was reportedly asked 18 questions mostly related to allegations he received more than Rp50 billion from a businessman named Tan Kian. According to Hotman, his client firmly denied all charges.
Hotman also claimed that evidence allegedly found at Febrie’s business premises, home in Sentul, and a money changer showed no connection to the alleged illicit funds.
Febrie was not detained following the examination. (aan/mzm)
Indonesian Version:
Benarkah Penetapan Tersangka Eks Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah Harus Izin Presiden Prabowo?
