6 Key Points from Hotman Paris on the Nadiem Makarim Case, Chromebook Audit in the Spotlight

The alleged corruption case surrounding the procurement of Chromebook laptops, which has drawn in former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim, has once again come under public scrutiny. This time, attention is focused on statements by prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea, who once served as Nadiem’s legal counsel. Rather than discussing emotional responses or public support for Nadiem, Hotman outlined a number of points he considers to be the crux of the legal matter. In his view, the case can only be resolved through evidence presented in court, not through public opinion or sympathy.

Here are several important points conveyed by Hotman Paris regarding the alleged Chromebook corruption case.

1. Claims He Still Has a Close Relationship with Nadiem’s Family

At the beginning of his statement, Hotman revealed that he has a good relationship with Nadiem Makarim’s family. He admitted to having worked alongside Nadiem’s father, Nono Anwar Makarim, for about two decades. This closeness, according to Hotman, means he still cares about the case currently facing the former Education Minister. "Brother Nadiem Makarim, I shared an office with your father for 20 years, so I still have a sense of affection and loyalty to your father, Doctor Nono Anwar Makarim," Hotman Paris stated.

2. Assesses That Public Support Will Not Determine the Verdict

Hotman also emphasised that various efforts to gain public sympathy will not influence the substance of the case being processed legally. He believes the main focus should be directed at proving the case in court, not on building opinions through social media or support from various groups. "Once again I remind you, there is no use in crying, no use in involving the masses, no use in involving thousands of professors, focus on the legal issues. The legal issue is only one, whether the price of the Chromebook is reasonable or not, just that," said Hotman.

3. States the Core of the Case Lies in the Reasonableness of the Chromebook Price

According to Hotman, this alleged corruption case hinges on one very fundamental aspect, namely whether the procurement price of the Chromebooks can be considered reasonable or whether there was price inflation.