Doctor Tifa Rejects Restorative Justice in Jokowi Diploma Defamation Trial

Defendant Tifauzia Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, has rejected the option of restorative justice and chosen to contest the charges in the first hearing of her trial for alleged defamation and slander related to the authenticity of the diploma of Indonesia’s 7th President, Joko Widodo (Jokowi).

‘Based on my consultation with my advocates, firstly, I will not pursue Restorative Justice,’ Doctor Tifa stated during the inaugural hearing at the East Jakarta District Court on Thursday.

Presiding Judge Christina Endarwati initially explained a provision in Law Number 20 of recent legislation which allows a defendant the opportunity to seek resolution through reconciliation with Jokowi for several charges carrying a maximum sentence of under five years. The judge also outlined other options available to the defendant, including admitting to the charges in accordance with the relevant procedural articles or contesting the indictment.

This explanation prompted a reaction from several courtroom observers, who were heard cheering in the gallery. After being given another opportunity to consult with her legal team, Doctor Tifa chose to deliver her response directly to the panel of judges. Responding to the disruption, Judge Christina Endarwati immediately reminded all observers to maintain courtroom decorum.

‘Please comply, so that this trial proceeds in an orderly manner. No cheering is allowed in the courtroom. Respect the defendant who is exercising her rights in this trial,’ the judge said. Once order was restored, Doctor Tifa continued stating her legal position. She declared she would not pursue the restorative justice mechanism, chose to contest the charges, and rejected the plea bargain mechanism, which involves a defendant voluntarily admitting guilt.

The panel of judges then confirmed that the defendant would contest the prosecutor’s charges and asked the legal counsel team how much time they required to prepare their legal challenge.

Doctor Tifa is charged with a primary indictment under the new Criminal Code concerning defamation, with alternative charges under the old Criminal Code. Additionally, prosecutors have brought two further charges under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law, relating to the manipulation and alteration of electronic information, each linked to the new Criminal Code.