PDIP's Rieke: Party Sanctions in Doctor Icha Case Cannot Replace Criminal Prosecution
Rieke Diah Pitaloka, a member of the DPR Human Rights Commission, has emphasised that party sanctions against members suspected of involvement in the intimidation of Dr Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, alias Dr Icha—who died allegedly by suicide—must not replace legal proceedings.
According to Rieke, the legal process against the perpetrators must proceed, particularly if the actions were carried out while the victim was on duty in the Emergency Department (IGD) of RSU Leona Kefamenanu.
“Organisational or party ethical sanctions cannot replace the criminal justice process. If it is proven that intimidation and the abuse of official influence occurred against Dr Icha while she was on duty in the IGD of RSU Leona Kefamenanu, then this matter must be processed professionally, independently, and transparently,” she stated on Wednesday (1/7).
The PDIP politician explained that the Emergency Department is a restricted area that must remain sterile during life-saving procedures. This requirement is regulated by World Health Organization (WHO) standards, the Joint Commission International (JCI), and Indonesian emergency service regulations.
Furthermore, Law Number 17 of 2023 concerning Health guarantees that medical personnel receive legal protection, occupational safety, security, and protection from violence, harassment, and bullying.
Rieke noted that if the investigation proves a causal link between the intimidation and the victim’s death, investigators should consider applying Articles 462, 466, 468, and Article 58 in conjunction with Article 59 of the Criminal Code (KUHP) regarding increased penalties for officials who abuse their authority.
“Indications of mens rea also need to be investigated, as the reported individuals allegedly entered a medical service area knowingly, using the authority of their positions, and could reasonably suspect that their actions could cause serious psychological pressure on medical personnel on duty,” she said.
Rieke emphasised that in a state governed by law, there is no privilege of office. On the contrary, she noted that the constitution affirms that everyone is equal before the law, without exception.
Police have recently scheduled examinations for three members of the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) accused of intimidating Dr Icha. They are Therensius Lazakar (Golkar), Robert Tubancy (PKB), and Veronika Lake (PDIP).
The intimidation allegedly took place while Dr Icha was treating a child who was a victim of a green snake bite in the Emergency Department of RS Leona Kefamenanu, TTU, on 13 June.
Therensius, identified as the victim’s uncle, arrived at the hospital alongside Nubertus Tubani and Veronika Lake. They reportedly spoke loudly in an intimidating tone to Dr Icha.
“Dr Icha was still experiencing fear and psychological pressure due to the shouting she received while on duty,” said the victim’s uncle, Victor Manbait, on Friday (26/6).
Recently, Veronika spoke out in response to her involvement. She stated that she did not enter the ICU to intimidate the victim. She also claimed that her two colleagues from the TTU DPRD had already apologised to the management of RS Leona and to Dr Icha.
Veronika also did not return to RSU Leona the following day. “Once again, from the bottom of my heart, I express my deepest condolences on the passing of Dr Icha,” she said.