Anwar Usman Reveals Joys and Sorrows During Tenure as Constitutional Court Judge

Former Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court (MK) Anwar Usman admitted feeling relieved after ending his term as a Constitutional Justice. He revealed the joys and sorrows he experienced over 15 years serving as an MK judge. “Praise be to God, I have concluded my duties, leaving this building with a relieved heart. I shed tears earlier not for any particular reason, but because of the many joys and sorrows I have encountered,” said Anwar during the retirement ceremony at the MK building in Jakarta on Monday (13/4/2026). Anwar recounted his experiences over 15 years of service at the MK. According to him, every decision made by a judge will inevitably leave disappointment for certain parties. “In truth, when a judge delivers a ruling, it at least adds one enemy. Why? It is impossible to produce a decision that satisfies all parties. For any case, from ancient times until now,” he stated. On that occasion, Anwar also recalled a moment when a newly appointed Constitutional Justice contacted him because they could not withstand public pressure. “I said: ‘My sibling, that is the risk of being a judge. The risk of upholding truth, law, and justice’,” Anwar remarked. Anwar then extended his apologies and gratitude to the MK staff. He advised the judges to remain committed to fulfilling their mandate in adjudicating cases. “I will not retreat even a single step, not even a tiny bit, in upholding truth, law, and justice because that is the trust from Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala,” he concluded.