Banser Protests at KPK Amidst Yaqut Cholil Qoumas Investigation
Jakarta – Hundreds of members of Barisan Ansor Serbaguna (Banser) and Pemuda Ansor demonstrated at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) building in South Jakarta on Thursday, March 12, 2026, as former Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas was being questioned as a suspect in a Hajj quota corruption case.
Demonstration and Arrival of Protesters
The protesters began arriving at the KPK’s Red and White building at approximately 4:42 PM local time, utilizing motorcycles, cars, and buses. They voiced their support for Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and expressed opposition to the investigation. Some protesters attempted to remove barbed wire installed by police, while law enforcement maintained a presence to monitor the situation and secure the KPK entrance. Antara News reported on the gathering.
Yaqut Cholil Qoumas’s Response
Yaqut Cholil Qoumas arrived for questioning at 1:05 PM local time, accompanied by his legal team. He denied requesting a postponement of the examination, stating, “Yes, I attended an invitation from KPK investigators. Bismillah. There’s no such thing (asking for a postponement of the investigation).” Liputan6.com detailed his arrival and statement.
Protestors’ Concerns and Potential Escalation
The Banser members believe the charges against Yaqut Cholil Qoumas are a form of criminalization. During the protest, demonstrators chanted slogans in support of Yaqut, with some proclaiming, “Defend Gus Yaqut until death.” Media Indonesia reported that protesters threatened to mobilize seven million Banser and Ansor members to occupy the KPK building if Yaqut is further prosecuted.
Aftermath of Detention
Following Yaqut Cholil Qoumas’s detention, protesters expressed their outrage. Demonstrators were seen tearing and burning clothing bearing the KPK logo and attempting to breach the KPK’s security perimeter, though they were contained by police and fellow Banser members. DetikNews provided coverage of the reactions after the detention.
The KPK is expected to hold a press conference detailing the specifics of the case against the former minister.