KPK Prosecutors Maintain 5-Year Prison Demand Despite Noel Ebenezer's Regret

KPK prosecutors have consistently sought a five-year prison sentence for former Deputy Minister of Manpower Noel Ebenezer, accused of extortion in the processing of Occupational Safety and Health (K3) certificates.

Prosecutor Dame Maria Silaban stated that Noel’s defence pleas and those of his legal counsel were based on assumptions not supported by evidence. “The defence failed to present witnesses to corroborate their claims, despite the court’s provision of evidence,” she said during her rebuttal at the Corruption Court in Central Jakarta on Monday, 25 May 2026.

She added that Noel’s and his lawyers’ responses attempting to refute the prosecution’s legal analysis were unfounded, as the charges were built on evidence presented in court, including witness testimonies, documents, and electronic evidence. “We request the court to dismiss the defence’s arguments and uphold our original demand made on 18 May 2026,” the KPK prosecutor stated.

In his plea, Noel admitted fault for not being sufficiently careful in safeguarding his responsibilities as a public official, leading to the alleged extortion case. “I acknowledge my mistake and regret it. As a public official, I should have been more diligent and cautious in upholding my duty,” he said.

He acknowledged the need for greater vigilance regarding workplace relationships, communication, and environment to avoid undermining public trust. Noel stressed that his admission was not hollow and that true remorse extends beyond mere words, urging the court to consider his full humanity and the circumstances of the case.