President Prabowo Reflects on Nationwide Scams Totaling Trillion-Rupiah Losses, Questions Sentencing
President Prabowo Subianto, during his address at the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) 2025-2029 event hosted by the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) in Jakarta, unexpectedly touched upon a case that has resulted in significant financial losses to the nation. Prabowo expressed his views on the sentencing given to the convicted parties.
"Once it’s clear that they’ve broken the law, and caused trillions of rupiah in damages, then all those involved, especially the judges, should not pass such lenient sentences," Prabowo stated on Monday (30/12/2024).
The case Prabowo was referring to is suspected to be the corruption case involving Harvey Moeis, which has resulted in losses of up to Rp300 trillion. However, Moeis was sentenced to only 6.5 years in prison. Prabowo opined that the sentence was disproportionate and expressed concern about the potential luxuries Moeis may enjoy during his imprisonment, such as air conditioning and televisions.
"Even the people on the streets understand that this is not justice," Prabowo remarked. "This is akin to saying that stealing trillions of rupiah is equivalent to a few years in prison, where prisoners might even have access to air conditioning, refrigerators, and televisions."
Prabowo went on to summon the Minister of Law and Human Rights, Agus Adrianto, and the Attorney General, ST Burhanuddin, who were also present at the event. The President encouraged the Attorney General to file an appeal, suggesting a possible 50-year sentence.
"I hope, Minister of Law and Human Rights and Attorney General, that you will file an appeal. If possible, maybe a 50-year sentence would be appropriate," Prabowo asserted.
(isa/eva)