Position of Kupang DPRD Member Mokris Lay Still Uncertain Despite Acquittal Verdict

The panel of judges at the Kupang District Court (PN) has handed down an acquittal to Kupang City DPRD member Mokrianus (Mokris) Lay in the case of neglecting his wife and child. Although acquitted criminally, the fate of the Hanura Party politician as a DPRD member remains uncertain. This is because the party tribunal proceedings are still ongoing.

The Chairman of the Hanura Party Kupang City Branch, Erwin Gah, emphasised that the criminal process does not eliminate the party tribunal process. “Regarding organisational matters, it has been handed over to the party tribunal and there have already been two hearings. So we are awaiting the decision from the party tribunal hearing. Because the criminal matter is handled in court,” said Erwin via telephone on Tuesday (21/4/2026).

According to Erwin, the party tribunal deals with breaches of ethical and moral codes, not criminal matters. “In the organisation, the party tribunal relates to ethical and moral codes. Not the criminal aspect,” he stressed.

Erwin still appreciated the acquittal verdict for Mokrianus Lay, who has served two terms as a Kupang City DPRD member. “First and foremost, I congratulate Mr Mokris and his legal team on his freedom regarding the criminal matter faced by Mr Mokris,” he added.

Previously reported, Mokrianus Imanuel Lay was acquitted by the panel of judges at PN Kupang. Mokris was found not proven to have neglected his wife and two children as alleged by the prosecutor.

The hearing was chaired by Chief Judge Harlina Rayes along with two members, namely Olyviarin Rosalinda Taopan and Sisera Semida Naomi Nenohayfeto. Mokris was accompanied by his legal counsel, Rian Kapitan and team.

“The defendant Mokrianus Imanuel Lay alias Mokris has not been legally and convincingly proven as per alternative charges one through three,” stated the panel of judges in the hearing on Tuesday.