Indonesian parliament member Hinka Bangaitian criticized the prosecutor's decision to appeal the acquittal of Delpedro Marahan, the director of the Lokataru Foundation, and his associates. He clarified that the recently enacted laws prohibit appeals against acquittals, making this move illegal.
Bangaitian made these statements during a press conference at the parliament complex in Jakarta, where he asserted that court rulings cannot be appealed if they pertain to acquittals. He pointed out that the parliament was responsible for drafting the new laws, which contain clear provisions preventing appeals against such rulings.
Details of the Case
In August 2025, Delpedro and his associates were arrested on charges of incitement during a protest that witnessed violent events. Despite this, the court issued an acquittal, prompting the prosecutor's office to express dissatisfaction and decide to appeal the ruling. Bangaitian confirmed that the new laws, enacted in 2025, prohibit any attempts to appeal acquittal rulings.
He noted that the new criminal procedure law states that acquittal rulings cannot be contested, indicating that the prosecutor's office is following a misinterpretation of the old law. He explained that this situation could complicate legal matters and increase pressure on the judicial system.
Background & Context
Historically, there have been numerous cases involving appeals against acquittals, sparking widespread debate about the independence of the judiciary in Indonesia. These cases have led to calls for judicial reform and the strengthening of laws that protect the rights of the accused. With the new law in place, many hope for an improvement in the legal situation and a reduction in political interference in the judiciary.
The Lokataru Foundation is considered one of the prominent organizations in Indonesia, working to promote human rights and defend civil liberties. The arrest of Delpedro and his associates has elicited strong reactions from local and international human rights organizations, increasing pressure on the government to improve human rights conditions.
Impact & Consequences
The prosecutor's decision to appeal may affect the image of the Indonesian government on the international stage, especially amid growing criticism regarding human rights. If the prosecutor's office continues down this path, it could exacerbate legal conditions and heighten tensions between the government and civil society organizations.
This decision may also raise concerns among investors and the international community regarding the stability of the legal system in Indonesia, potentially impacting foreign investments and increasing worries about human rights in the country.
Regional Significance
The implications of this situation extend beyond Indonesia, as it highlights the ongoing struggle for judicial independence and human rights in Southeast Asia. Observers are closely monitoring how the Indonesian government addresses these challenges, as they may set precedents for other nations in the region.
In conclusion, the Indonesian prosecutor's decision to appeal the acquittal of Delpedro Marahan raises significant legal and ethical questions. It underscores the importance of adhering to new laws regarding acquittals and reflects the tensions between the government and human rights organizations.