Sexual Violence in Pati, PBNU: Damages the Honour of Pesantren and Erodes Public Trust

JAKARTA - The Chairman of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) for Religious Affairs, Ahmad Fahrur Rozi or Gus Fahrur, stated that the sexual violence incident at one of the pesantren in Pati, Central Java, damages the honour of the pesantren. Therefore, there should be no compromise for the perpetrator in the sexual violence case. “We state that the perpetrator has damaged the honour of the pesantren and eroded public trust; therefore, there must be no protection, tolerance, or compromise for the perpetrator in any form,” he said in a short message on Wednesday (6/5/2026). In addition, PBNU also urges law enforcement officials to act quickly, firmly, and transparently, ensuring that the perpetrator receives the maximum punishment without any impunity loopholes. “Especially regarding the power relations between caregivers and students, to prevent the abuse of authority,” he said. PBNU also demands a tangible and measurable student protection system, including independent reporting mechanisms, access to legal aid, and involvement of external parties in oversight. “Emphasising the obligation of all parties to prioritise comprehensive recovery for the victim, maintain confidentiality of identity, and ensure the victim does not experience revictimisation,” he stressed. The police stated that they have obtained sufficient preliminary evidence after examining witnesses and conducting scene processing. Pati Police Chief, Kombes Pol Jaka Wahyudi, mentioned that a kiai named Ashari was designated as a suspect on 28 April 2026 following a case review. However, the police claimed that the handling process after the 2024 report was delayed due to attempts at family-based resolution from the victim’s side. Although already designated as a suspect, the perpetrator has not been detained to date because he is considered cooperative during the examination process.