Rismon Sianipar Says Jokowi Family Remains Open Despite Fake Diploma Allegations

Rismon Sianipar, suspect in allegations of forged credentials against Indonesia’s seventh President Joko Widodo, disclosed details of his discussion with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka at the Vice Presidential Palace in Gambir, Central Jakarta on Friday, 13 March 2026.

Rismon stated that Gibran received him openly and with maturity. He described the Jokowi family as possessing strong democratic values, having accepted his latest research on the diploma controversy positively.

“Openness and maturity of a family—despite being criticised harshly, even disrespectfully, mocked by myself and others—that for me demonstrates democratic values being instilled,” Sianipar said.

Rismon added that the Jokowi family accepted the research as long as it was grounded in honesty. He noted that the research had undergone contemporary scrutiny.

“However, from what the Vice President explained, that his family remains open to research and will correct it, provided it is honest,” he stated.

He also told Gibran that his latest research and apology to Jokowi held no particular political motive. Sianipar said he would correct his incomplete research in his book “Jokowi’s White Paper and Gibran’s End Game.”

“There is no political motive, no pursuit of position or public office. I told the Vice President that I will document my corrections regarding my incomplete research in the book Jokowi’s White Paper and Gibran’s End Game,” he explained.

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka previously responded to the apology extended by researcher Rismon Sianipar to Indonesia’s seventh President Joko Widodo regarding his research in the book titled “Jokowi’s White Paper.”

In a written statement received by Antara in Jakarta on Thursday evening, Gibran said Ramadan is an appropriate month for mutual forgiveness and rebuilding bonds of brotherhood.

“Ramadan is an excellent month for mutual forgiveness and rebuilding the ties of brotherhood,” Gibran stated.

Vice President Gibran also appreciated Sianipar’s statement and willingness to review and reconsider the statements previously made to the public.