KPK Views Satirical Floral Tributes as Positive Public Expression Following Yaqut's House Arrest
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regards the floral tributes from the Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) as a positive form of public expression, following the designation of former Minister of Religious Affairs, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, as under house arrest.
Yaqut Cholil Qoumas (YCQ) is the brother of the Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), Yahya Cholil Staquf.
“KPK views this as a form of public expression that we accept positively,” said KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo in his statement on Wednesday (25/3/2026).
Based on observations by Kompas.com, there were two floral tributes sent by MAKI in front of the KPK’s Red and White Building on Wednesday (25/3/2026).
Budi stated that, as a law enforcement agency, KPK is always open to various criticisms, suggestions, and constructive inputs in its efforts to eradicate corruption.
He said that KPK sees MAKI’s actions as also reflecting high public attention, expectations, and trust in the law enforcement process carried out by KPK.
“Public participation, in various forms, is an important element in maintaining the integrity and accountability of the institution,” he said.
Budi stated that KPK positions the public as a strategic partner in eradicating corruption.
“Therefore, KPK will continue to keep the space for public participation open, as part of its commitment to delivering clean, professional, and integrity-based law enforcement,” he said.
Previously, KPK stated that the transfer of detention for Yaqut is part of the investigation strategy in the alleged corruption case of the 2023-2024 Hajj quota.
KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo said that the transfer of detention was carried out following a request from the family.
“Investigators have changed the type of detention for suspect Mr YCQ, from detention at the KPK Detention Centre to house arrest, since Thursday (19/3/2026) night,” said Budi on Saturday (21/3/2026).
Yaqut was previously detained at the KPK detention centre since 12 March 2026 after being designated as a suspect.
He is implicated in the alleged corruption case of the 2023-2024 Hajj quota with state losses amounting to Rp 622 billion.