Lawyer Speaks Out on Yaqut Being Transferred to House Arrest
The lawyer for former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, known as Gus Yaqut, Dodi S Abdulkadir, has spoken out regarding the transfer of his client’s detention status to house arrest by the KPK.
Dodi stated that the KPK is best positioned to explain the reasons behind granting the request for the change in detention status.
He noted that his client has always been cooperative throughout the investigation into the Hajj quota corruption case.
“The KPK has designated Mr Yaqut’s status as house arrest, and naturally, the KPK is most aware of its considerations. Clearly, Gus Yaqut has been very cooperative and has fully supported the KPK’s investigation process,” Dodi said, as quoted by detikcom on Sunday (22/3).
Dodi also mentioned that Yaqut fully supports the legal process being conducted by the KPK.
“Gus Yaqut fully supports the legal process carried out by the KPK,” he said.
Previously, the KPK transferred Yaqut’s detention to house arrest. The change in status for the former religious affairs minister was implemented since Thursday (18/3).
“Indeed, the investigators have changed the type of detention for suspect YCQ from detention at the KPK detention centre to house arrest, starting from Thursday (18/3) night,” said KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo on Saturday (21/3).
Budi revealed that the transfer of detention status was based on a request from the suspect’s family on 17 March.
“Following that request, it was reviewed and approved with considerations in accordance with Article 108 paragraphs (1) and (11) of Law Number 20 of 2025 on the Criminal Procedure Code,” he said.
Budi assured that the transfer of status complies with procedures.
“We assure that the process of transferring detention for this temporary period complies with the provisions and procedures for investigation and detention of a suspect,” he said.
Meanwhile, Coordinator of the Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) Boyamin Saiman criticised the change in Yaqut’s detention status because it was done quietly without informing the public.
Boyamin urged the KPK Supervisory Board to investigate the change in Yaqut’s detention status.
“This is very disappointing, unless it was announced from the beginning, no problem. But this was done secretly, and even the reason given was for additional examinations of other detainees. But he didn’t return. This is truly disappointing behaviour from the KPK. It has broken records, done secretly, and not even announced,” he explained.