Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Hasto Kristiyanto, the Secretary General of Indonesia’s ruling PDI-P (Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle), is bracing for the possibility of being detained and brought before a court following his designation as a suspect by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).
Ronny Talapessy, Chair of PDI-P’s National Legal System Reform division, revealed that Hasto has prepared a plea of defense in seven languages. This strategic move, Ronny explained, aims to draw international attention to Indonesia’s legal proceedings.
“Mas Hasto told me his plea will be presented in seven languages to ensure the world can witness the process,” Ronny stated on Friday, January 10, 2025.
Global Communication Strategy
In addition to the multilingual plea, Ronny indicated that future press statements from Hasto’s legal team would also be delivered in seven languages. This is part of a broader effort to highlight what the PDI-P sees as irregularities in the legal proceedings.
“We are preparing everything related to this case. Updates will be delivered in seven languages so the international community can follow the developments,” Ronny added.
Allegations of Procedural Drama
Ronny criticized the KPK’s handling of the case, describing it as overly theatrical. He pointed to an instance where KPK investigators reportedly carried a suitcase to seize a flash drive and a small notebook.
“The public’s common sense cannot comprehend why investigators would need a suitcase just to secure a USB flash drive and a small notebook,” Ronny argued.
PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto Suspect in Coruption Scandal
Political and Legal Implications
Hasto’s case is expected to garner significant attention, both domestically and internationally, especially given the PDI-P’s prominence as Indonesia’s ruling party. The move to deliver statements and pleadings in multiple languages underscores the party’s intention to bring Indonesia’s legal system under global scrutiny.
As the case progresses, it remains to be seen how the multilingual approach will influence both public opinion and the legal process.
(Becky)