Yusril: Trial of Andrie Yunus Case Must Demonstrate Legal Integrity
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has reminded that the trial process for the alleged assault case against KontraS Deputy Coordinator Andrie Yunus must demonstrate the state’s authority and the integrity of law enforcement.
According to Yusril, this is important to avoid creating negative perceptions in society.
“Do not let the impression arise that this trial is merely a formality or even a spectacle that damages public trust in the state and law enforcement institutions,” Yusril stated when confirmed in Jakarta on Monday.
Yusril stated that the government reaffirms its commitment to respecting the independence of the judiciary in handling the case of the alleged acid splashing against Andrie, which is currently being tried at the Military Court II-08 Jakarta.
He hopes that the entire trial process will proceed in accordance with criminal procedure law and the applicable provisions of the Military Criminal Code (KUHP).
In this way, it is hoped that the trial process against the defendants will run professionally, objectively, and uphold the principles of a free and impartial judiciary.
“This aligns with the eight Astacita or eight programmes of the Prabowo Subianto administration, one of which is legal reform and law enforcement to ensure justice and legal certainty,” he said.
Because, added Yusril, the government in principle upholds the independence of the judiciary. The position of the judicial power is independent and must be free from interference or influence from any party, including the government.
According to Yusril, the government has a constitutional obligation to uphold the law and public trust in state institutions.
Therefore, continued Yusril, a judicial process that runs well, openly, and fairly will have an important impact on the state’s image in the eyes of society and the international community.
“This concerns the people’s trust in the state. Maintaining that trust is also part of the government’s responsibility,” said Yusril.
If the defendants are proven guilty in a lawful and convincing manner, the verdict must be imposed fairly in accordance with the applicable law.
Conversely, if the charges are not proven, the court must also have the courage to acquit the defendants for the sake of justice.
The Military Court II-08 Jakarta is currently trying four TNI soldiers as defendants in the acid splashing case against Andrie Yunus.
The four defendants are Sergeant Two Edi Sudarko, First Lieutenant Budhi Hariyanto Widhi, Captain Nandala Dwi Prasetya, and First Lieutenant Sami Lakka.
The four are charged with splashing acid on Andrie to give him a lesson and a “deterrent effect” so as not to badmouth the TNI institution.
For their actions, the four defendants face penalties under Article 469 paragraph (1) or Article 468 paragraph (1) or Article 467 paragraph (1) in conjunction with paragraph (2) jo. Article 20 letter C of the National Criminal Code (KUHP).
In the trial held last Wednesday (6/5), the panel of judges highlighted several aspects in the construction of the case and the process of carrying out the alleged criminal act.
Public attention to the case continues to increase along with hopes that the legal process will run openly, professionally, and produce a verdict that reflects justice based on trial facts and applicable legal provisions.