Former KPK Leader Chandra Hamzah Reminds that Asset Seizure Should Target Officials, Not Ordinary Citizens
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Former KPK leader Chandra Hamzah has reminded that the rules of the Asset Seizure Bill (RUU Perampasan Aset) should focus more on combating serious crimes involving state officials, rather than ordinary citizens.
According to him, asset seizure should not be applied broadly to all criminal acts, especially those targeting minor violations by the public that are unrelated to state interests.
“Do not let it happen that someone steals and asset seizure is used. Do not let criminal acts between individuals also be subject to asset seizure,” Chandra said during a Public Hearing (RDPU) with Commission III of the DPR RI on Wednesday (8/4/2026).
Based on various discussions and surveys he has conducted, the majority of the public believes that asset seizure should be applied to corruption offences.
“Over 90 percent state that asset seizure is for corruption offences. I am sure you agree, not for other criminal acts,” Chandra stated.
Therefore, asset seizure should target that group.
“Corruption can only be committed by PEP (Politically Exposed Persons). There is no corruption committed by a fried catfish seller. Corruption definitely involves state officials or public officials,” he said.
Chandra also reminded that the state should not interfere too much in private matters between individuals.
“If it’s between private parties, that’s their business. The state does not need to get involved to that extent,” Chandra said.
“I once conducted a study visit to Australia with PPATK regarding Unexplained Wealth. And this I took from the UK. In the UK, it is stated that the Unexplained Wealth Order can only be applied to: One, Serious Crime. Okay, I read, the property is more than 50,000 pounds,” Chandra revealed.
Chandra also hopes for a clear formulation regarding the types of criminal acts that can be subject to asset seizure, to avoid injustice in its application.
“Do not let this target things that the state actually does not need to get involved in,” Chandra concluded.