Nadiem Maintains Innocence Ahead of Verdict in Education Laptop Corruption Case

Former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim has spoken out ahead of the verdict hearing in the alleged corruption case concerning the procurement of Chromebook laptops, maintaining his stance of innocence. Speaking before the decision was read at the Central Jakarta District Court on Tuesday, Nadiem stated that his sole hope was for truth and justice to prevail. “I just hope that today truth wins, that today justice wins, that is all I hope for,” he said. He also expressed a prayer that justice still holds meaning in Indonesia.

Nadiem acknowledged the support he has received from his family and sympathisers throughout the trial. Despite his optimism, he conceded that the court’s decision might not align with the facts presented during the proceedings. “I am aware that today the decision might not be in accordance with the facts of the trial,” Nadiem remarked.

The Central Jakarta District Court is scheduled to read the verdict against Nadiem Makarim. Court spokesman M Firman Akbar noted that seating capacity in the courtroom is limited and urged attendees, including journalists, to arrive early. The session is also being broadcast live on the court’s official YouTube channel. Prosecutors have demanded an 18-year prison sentence and Rp5.6 trillion in restitution, alleging that corruption in the digitalisation of education programme caused state losses amounting to Rp2.18 trillion.