MAKI Criticizes KPK’s Decision to Place Former Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas Under House Arrest
Jakarta – The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) has strongly criticized the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) for its decision to place former Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas under house arrest. MAKI alleges a lack of transparency in the decision-making process and raises concerns about potential discrimination in the application of justice.
Lack of Transparency Fuels Concerns
MAKI Coordinator Boyamin Saiman expressed disappointment over the KPK’s handling of the case, stating that the transition to house arrest was conducted without any public announcement. “The problem now is that the transfer of Gus Yaqut’s house arrest has really disappointed us all. One, there has been no announcement,” Saiman said, as reported on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
The information regarding Yaqut’s change in detention status first came to light through Silvia Rinita Harefa, the wife of former Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer (Noel), after visiting her husband during Eid. This lack of official communication from the KPK has raised questions about potential cover-ups.
Allegations of Discrimination and Unequal Treatment
Saiman further argued that the timing of the decision, shortly before Eid, raises suspicions. “The Corruption Eradication Committee (KPK) has never suspended detention, the transfer of detention as long as it was painless. This suddenly doesn’t hurt to be suspended, especially before Eid. So this is discrimination, others are being detained whereas Gus Yaqut is transferred to house arrest as if for Eid,” he stated.
MAKI as well contrasted the treatment of Yaqut with that of former Papuan Governor Lukas Enembe. Despite a family request for Enembe not to be detained due to illness, the KPK refused and Enembe subsequently died in detention. Saiman pointed out the apparent inconsistency, noting that Yaqut, a healthy individual, was granted house arrest while Enembe’s request was denied.
KPK’s Response and Justification
KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo confirmed that Yaqut has been under house arrest since Thursday, March 19, 2026. However, the KPK has not provided a clear explanation for the decision. Prasetyo stated that the move was based on a request from Yaqut’s family and was processed in accordance with relevant legal procedures, specifically Article 108 paragraph (1) and (11) of the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP). He emphasized that the house arrest was not due to health concerns.
MAKI’s Demand for Re-arrest
MAKI is urging the KPK to reconsider its decision and return Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to detention. The organization believes that maintaining Yaqut in custody is crucial for restoring public trust and upholding the principles of fairness and transparency in the fight against corruption. Saiman warned that allowing such discrepancies could damage the integrity of the KPK and undermine its efforts to combat corruption.