Pre-trial Motion Rejected, Here Is Gus Yaqut's Team's Response

A single judge at Jakarta South District Court has rejected a pre-trial motion filed by former Religious Affairs Minister (Menag) Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, commonly known as Gus Yaqut, concerning his suspect status in a hajj quota corruption case.

Gus Yaqut’s legal team, represented by Mellisa Angraini, stated that they respected the court’s decision. However, Angraini noted that the judge failed to consider the quality and relevance of the evidence they presented.

“Of course, we respect the decision from the single judge today,” Mellisa told journalists at Jakarta South District Court on Wednesday, 11 March 2026. “We do, however, have serious reservations about this judicial process because despite the numerous arguments we presented, the pre-trial judge only looked at the quantity of evidence already on file—two pieces.”

“Regarding whether it was of good quality or relevant, that was not considered at all,” she added.

Mellisa also highlighted concerns about the Anti-Corruption Commission’s (KPK’s) authority in designating Gus Yaqut as a suspect, a matter not addressed during the proceedings.

According to Mellisa, this could set a negative precedent for Indonesia’s Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) and the new Criminal Code (KUHP).

“The judge also failed to address the KPK’s authority in designating a suspect, something clearly stipulated in the KUHAP and the KPK law that has since been amended,” she stated.

Previously, it was reported that Jakarta South District Court rejected the pre-trial motion filed by former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas concerning his suspect status in the alleged hajj quota corruption case investigated by the Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK).

Single judge Sulistyo Muhamad Dwi Putro announced this decision during the ruling hearing held at Jakarta South District Court on Wednesday, 11 March 2026 afternoon.

“In the principal matter, I reject the pre-trial motion of the petitioner in its entirety,” declared Judge Sulistyo when reading the court order.

With this ruling, the suspect status of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut in the hajj quota corruption case remains valid.