Yaqut Dismisses Witnesses in Hajj Quota Corruption Trial, Claiming They Are Lying

Former Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, also known as Gus Yaqut, has dismissed several statements made by witnesses presented by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) during the trial concerning the alleged corruption of additional Hajj quotas within the Ministry of Religious Affairs for 2023-2024. Yaqut maintains that the testimonies are inconsistent with the facts.

These remarks were made by Yaqut after attending the follow-up hearing at the Jakarta Central Corruption Court on Thursday (1/10/2026). Yaqut stated that the claims regarding his involvement in the case, as mentioned by the witnesses, merely refer to information they heard from others. He considers the witnesses’ testimonies to be imperfect because they contain inaccurate statements.

“It is not perfect; they were all lying earlier. It has been proven to be lies; they only heard something and then recounted it as if it were true,” said Yaqut following the trial today.

Yaqut reminded that the trial will serve as a space to prove the truth behind the various testimonies presented. He remains confident that the truth will come to light.

“Ultimately, this courtroom will be a space for evidence. I have always believed that the truth will surely find its way, sooner or later,” stated Yaqut.