Timeline of Rismon Sianipar's Apology and Restorative Justice Application in Jokowi Diploma Case

The case involving former President Joko Widodo’s diploma, which involved digital forensics expert Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar, has culminated in the submission of a restorative justice application. Rismon Sianipar has issued a public apology.

The case originated from a defamation complaint filed by Jokowi’s family. The following is a timeline of significant events leading to the apology:

In his statement, Rismon Sianipar emphasised that as a researcher, he must defer to the latest data findings. He stated that his new findings could potentially invalidate the arguments he made in his book “Jokowi’s White Paper.” Many observers viewed this acknowledgement as a tactical step to avoid the threat of imprisonment, particularly after his associate Eggi Sudjana had previously secured a discontinuation of investigation (SP3) through a similar pathway.

By mid-March 2026, investigators from Metro Jaya Police were still processing the restorative justice application. If approved, Rismon Sianipar would be required to meet certain conditions, including a statement that he would not repeat his actions and a settlement agreement with the complainant.

Telematic expert Roy Suryo, also involved in the alleged forged diploma case of President Joko Widodo, responded to the restorative justice application submitted by Rismon Sianipar. Roy Suryo’s legal counsel, Refly Harun, noted discrepancies in photocopies of Jokowi’s diploma as presented by the National Police Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim) and those obtained from the General Elections Commission (KPU).

Following guidance from the Jakarta High Prosecutor’s Office, Metro Jaya Police investigators re-examined former President Joko Widodo to complete the case file for Roy Suryo and associates. The examination lasted two hours and took place in Solo.