Gibran Responds to Rismon Sianipar's Apology

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has responded to Rismon Sianipar’s apology regarding allegations of forged university credentials belonging to former president Joko Widodo (Jokowi). According to Gibran, Ramadan presents an opportune moment for mutual forgiveness.

“Ramadan is a very good month for mutual forgiveness and to rebuild the bonds of brotherhood,” said Gibran in an official statement from the Office of the Vice President on Thursday, 12 March 2026.

The eldest son of former President Jokowi expressed appreciation for Rismon’s statement and willingness to review his previous public statements and seek clarification. Gibran stated that this step demonstrates maturity in democracy.

Previously, Rismon Sianipar, the suspect in the defamation case regarding allegations of forged credentials, submitted a request for case resolution through restorative justice mechanisms. The request has been accepted by the Metropolitan Police of Greater Jakarta.

Rismon also met with Jokowi at his residence in Kelurahan Sumber, Kecamatan Banjarsari, Solo, Central Java, on Thursday, 12 March 2026. Rismon had previously uploaded a video apology to both Jokowi and Gibran. Rismon claimed to have discovered new information regarding Jokowi’s credentials, which he had previously alleged were forged.

Rismon stated he is withdrawing from the allegations regarding the forged credentials of both Jokowi and Gibran. He plans to produce a counter-thesis to the books about Jokowi and Gibran that he authored.

“I will produce a counter-thesis by writing an anti-thesis to my books Jokowi Paper and Gibran End Game, for which I take responsibility. I will make every effort to withdraw these books that have already been distributed,” said Rismon, as seen on the YouTube channel Balige Academy on Thursday, 12 March 2026.