Rismon Sianipar Praises Jokowi Family: Open to Forgiving Despite Harsh Criticism

Jakarta — Rismon Sianipar, the suspect in the case alleging a forged diploma of Indonesia’s seventh President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), has stated that the Jokowi family embodies democratic values. Despite being subjected to harsh criticism, according to Rismon, Jokowi and his family remain willing and open to forgiving him.

“Although criticised harshly, even criticised disrespectfully, mocked by myself and others, this is a family that, in my view, instils democratic values,” Rismon said after meeting Vice President (VP) Gibran Rakabuming at the Vice President’s residence in Jakarta on Friday (13 March 2026).

Rismon had previously visited Jokowi’s residence in Solo to personally apologise for his initial allegations. This apology came after Rismon discovered new evidence confirming that Jokowi’s diploma was authentic.

Rismon acknowledged his surprise at Jokowi’s open reception when he visited the former seventh President’s residence in Solo. He emphasised that Jokowi’s openness extended not only to himself but also to other suspects, including Roy Suryo.

Rismon also disclosed details of his meeting with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming at the VP’s residence in Jakarta on Friday morning. At this meeting, Rismon promised Jokowi’s eldest son that he would make amends for his initial allegations.

“I will atone for this to Mas Wapres’s family and especially to Pak Joko Widodo,” Rismon said after meeting Gibran.

Rismon will make this atonement by writing a book proving that Jokowi’s diploma is authentic. “I will document my correction regarding my incomplete research, Jokowi’s White Paper and Gibran’s End Game, and I ask permission to complete this work in my hometown in Balige, because Jakarta is too hectic,” he stated.