Immanuel Ebenezer Regrets Becoming Deputy Labour Minister, Ready to Face Death Penalty as Example Against Corruption
Former Deputy Labour Minister Immanuel Ebenezer, also known as Noel, expressed deep regret over his decision to serve as a minister. He made the statement after the plea hearing in a corruption case involving labour safety and health (K3) certification at the Ministry of Labour (Kemnaker) on Monday (25/5).
Noel described the legal case against him as the lowest point of his life, stating that his 10-month tenure as minister has come at a heavy cost, including prolonged detention and severe criminal charges.
“I deeply regret becoming Deputy Labour Minister. I regret it so much. It pains me to have held this position,” Noel said in court.
Despite expressing regret, Noel affirmed his readiness to face all legal and political consequences. He stated he has admitted his guilt from the outset of the legal proceedings and has no intention of blaming others or finding a “scapegoat”.
“I have admitted my guilt. From the moment I was arrested, I admitted it; during the first trial, I admitted it; and even now, I admit it. If my case serves as an example in the fight against corruption, I am ready to face the death penalty,” he stated firmly.
In his defence, Noel also referenced several pro-labour policies he implemented, such as banning companies from withholding diplomas and removing the maximum age limit of 35 for job applicants. He suspects these measures may have provoked backlash from certain parties against him.
Previously, the Public Prosecutor’s Office (JPU) sought a five-year prison sentence for Immanuel Ebenezer. He was found guilty of violating Article 12(b) in conjunction with Article 18 of the Anti-Corruption Law and Article 12B of the Corruption Law regarding gratification.
In addition to imprisonment, prosecutors demanded a fine of Rp250 million (or 90 days’ imprisonment if unpaid) and restitution of Rp1.435 billion to compensate state losses.
During the trial, prosecutors revealed Noel received funds in two categories: a bribe of Rp1 billion and gratification worth Rp3.435 billion.
The trial of the K3 certificate extortion case involving former Deputy Labour Minister Immanuel Ebenezer has entered its final stages. The KPK prosecutor will deliver the sentencing on 18 May 2026.
Immanuel Ebenezer deemed the KPK’s proposal to limit political party chairpersons to two terms inappropriate and beyond the legal authority of the institution.
He explained that the request was submitted based on legal considerations from his side, though the final decision remains within the KPK’s jurisdiction.
The KPK will summon a witness in the alleged K3 certificate extortion case involving former Deputy Labour Minister Immanuel Ebenezer Noel, including confirming allegations of funds flowing to Ida Fauziyah.