10 Facts About Yaqut Becoming KPK House Detainee
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred the detention of former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to house arrest. This decision has captured public attention as it is deemed unusual in handling corruption cases.
Here is a series of facts related to the case.
- Yaqut Suspect in Hajj Quota Corruption Case
Yaqut was named a suspect in the alleged corruption case of the additional Hajj quota for 2023-2024 on 9 January 2026. The case is estimated to have caused state losses of around Rp622 billion based on calculations by the Financial Audit Board (BPK).
He filed a pre-trial motion, but the lawsuit was rejected by the South Jakarta District Court.
- Temporarily Detained in KPK Detention Centre
After the pre-trial was rejected, KPK officially detained Yaqut at the KPK’s Red White Building Branch State Detention House (Rutan) on 12 March 2026. This detention was part of the ongoing investigation process.
- Becomes House Detainee
Shortly thereafter, KPK changed Yaqut’s detention status to house arrest starting from Thursday (18/3) night.
“The investigators have switched the type of detention for suspect YCQ to house arrest,” said KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo.
With this status, Yaqut was able to spend the Eid period at home on Saturday (21/3).
- Based on Family Request
KPK explained that the decision was taken after receiving a request from the family on 17 March 2026. The request was then reviewed by the investigators before being granted.
- Not Due to Health Condition
Unlike previous practices, KPK emphasised that this switch was not based on the suspect’s health condition.
“Not because of illness,” said Budi.
This has become a point of scrutiny because switches in detention are generally done for medical needs.
- KPK Says In Line with Procedure
KPK stated that the decision refers to Article 108 paragraphs (1) and (11) of Law No. 20 of 2025 on the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP).
The anti-corruption agency also assured that the detention switch process complied with applicable legal procedures.
- Yaqut Still Monitored
Even with house arrest status, KPK emphasised that strict monitoring of Yaqut continues.
“Close monitoring and security remain in place,” said Budi.
- Draws Public Criticism
The switch in detention status immediately drew criticism, including from the IM57+ Institute.
Chairman of the IM57+ Institute, Lakso Anindito, viewed the step as unusual and potentially undermining the principle of equality before the law.
“In KPK’s history, there has never been such special treatment for someone, especially without specific reasons like the need for special medical care, which would even have to be in a hospital,” said Lakso in a written statement on Sunday (22/3).
- MAKI Calls It ‘Record-Breaking’
Coordinator of the Indonesia Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI), Boyamin Saiman, even called the decision the first in KPK’s history. He also highlighted the process as lacking transparency because it was not announced from the start.
“This is very disappointing, unless it was announced from the beginning, no problem. But this was done quietly and even the reason given was for additional examinations of other detainees. But he didn’t return. This is truly disappointing behaviour from KPK. It’s already record-breaking, done quietly, and not announced,” said Boyamin.
- KPK Denies Special Treatment
In response to the criticism, KPK denied any special treatment for Yaqut. According to KPK, every suspect has the right to submit a similar request.
“Requests [for switch to house arrest] can be submitted. They will then be reviewed by the investigators because the detention authority lies with the investigators,” said Budi.
This series of events has turned Yaqut’s case not only into a legal matter but also into a public debate about the consistency of law enforcement and the principle of equality before the law.