Indonesian President Prabowo recently signed a pardon decree, granting amnesty to 1,116 individuals, including senior opposition leaders and former cabinet members.
According to Indonesian media reports on the 1st, Indonesian Minister of Justice Supratman stated that those pardoned include Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle Secretary-General Hasto and former Trade Minister Thomas Lembong. He indicated that both individuals "had made positive contributions to the country," and the decision to grant clemency was made "after fully considering national interests and ethnic unity."
Thomas was previously sentenced to four years and six months in prison for his involvement in a sugar import corruption case. Based on the pardon decree, the charges against him have been dropped, freeing him from criminal liability. Hasto, who was recently sentenced to three years and six months in prison for bribing election officials, was also granted a general amnesty, meaning his punishment has also been revoked.
Indonesia is set to celebrate the 80th anniversary of its independence on August 17. Traditionally, the President issues a pardon decree prior to the Independence Day celebrations. However, this year’s pardon, involving high-ranking political figures, has garnered widespread attention within Indonesia.