Urging Acquittal for Amsal Sitepu, Gekrafs Chairman: One Wronged, All Creative Economy Fighters Feel Wronged

The case of alleged corruption involving village funds that has ensnared Amsal Sitepu continues to spark acts of solidarity. The General Chairman of the National Creative Economy Movement (Gekrafs), Kawendra Lukistian, has firmly urged the Panel of Judges to immediately and fully release Amsal Sitepu. Kawendra believes that the case not only harms Amsal Sitepu but also offends the feelings of millions of creative workers across the country. “We are like one body. If one is wronged, then all the creative economy fighters in Indonesia, numbering 27.4 million, feel wronged. We want Brother Amsal to be fully released because this is foolish, such an assessment,” Kawendra stated during a meeting with Commission III of the House of Representatives, quoted from a video on Instagram @kawendra, on Monday, 30 March 2026. This demand feels even more emotional as it was delivered precisely on 30 March, commemorated as National Film Day. Kawendra reminded that Amsal is one of the active practitioners in that creative economy subsector. Moreover, that date also coincides with the wedding anniversary of Amsal and his wife. With the attention and support from Commission III of the House of Representatives, Kawendra places great hope that justice for Amsal can be upheld in this case. “Hopefully with (the support of) Commission III, we can give birth to and push for substantive and just justice. If Brother Amsal is released, it will be the most beautiful (wedding) gift for him and his wife,” he said. Furthermore, representing Gekrafs and all creative economy actors, Kawendra conveyed high appreciation to Commission III for accompanying this case. He stated that protecting practitioners in the creative industry is part of safeguarding the nation’s dignity. Regarding the ongoing legal process, Kawendra admitted he still has confidence in the integrity of law enforcement. He asked the panel of judges to use their conscience in delivering the verdict, referring to the facts revealed in the trial and considering the voice of the public. “We must protect these (creative economy) practitioners. I am optimistic that the panel of judges has a conscience after seeing the trial facts, especially with the many considerations and public opinions. Indeed, he should receive true justice. In the name of God, Brother Amsal can be released,” Kawendra concluded.