KPK Wants Immunity Right for Its Higher-ups

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) commissioner Agus Rahardjo said many methods could be applied to strengthen his institution. One of them is granting the immunity right for the board higher-ups.

“So they cannot be criminalized while on duty,” said Agus during a discussion in Senen, Central Jakarta, on Tuesday, April 16.

Agus explained that leaders of other state institutions have been received the immunity right, such as Indonesia Ombudsman. Article 10 of Law No. 37 of 2008 on Ombudsman noted that its officer cannot be arrested, detained, interrogated, or sued while carrying out their duties and authorities in the court.

Therefore, he opined, the anti-graft body commissioners and employees should be treated the same as Indonesia Ombudsman members. Not to mention that the KPK leaders had a higher risk to be criminalized rather than Ombudsman’s higher-ups.

“That’s necessary to strengthen the commissionaires as to maintain safety,” he added.

Moreover, Agus demanded his institution’s authorization be improved by revising the law on corruption crimes. This would allow the anti-graft body to take action against graft practices in the private sector, the trade in influence, and return of state assets.

Agus Rahardjo had previously reported to the National Police criminal investigation unit in October 2017. At that time, the police rejected the report because of a lack of evidence.

M ROSSENO AJI