Hasto Kristiyanto: KPK Charges PDI Perjuangan Secretary General in PAW Bribery Case and Obstruction of Justice

INDONESIAUPDATES.COM, News En – The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has officially named Hasto Kristiyanto, the Secretary-General of PDI Perjuangan (Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle), a suspect in a corruption case involving the alleged bribery of the Indonesian General Election Commission (KPU) to manipulate the substitution of a legislative seat (PAW) for Harun Masiku. Additionally, Hasto faces charges of obstruction of justice.

Hasto, a prominent politician from Yogyakarta, was taken into custody on Thursday afternoon after his interrogation at KPK’s headquarters in Jakarta. He was seen leaving the building in handcuffs and escorted by KPK officers.

KPK’s Statement on the Case

KPK spokesperson Tessa Mahardhika Sugiarto clarified that the investigation into Hasto Kristiyanto’s alleged corruption was purely a legal matter, with no political undertones. “Once again, we emphasize that Hasto’s designation as a suspect is based entirely on sufficient evidence and is not politically motivated,” Tessa stated.

The KPK had sufficient evidence to charge Hasto after reviewing several pieces of evidence, including testimony and materials presented in public hearings. According to Tessa, Indonesian law requires at least two pieces of evidence to establish someone as a suspect, although in Hasto’s case, more than two pieces of evidence were collected.

The Harun Masiku Case: An Overview

Hasto Kristiyanto’s role in the case traces back to December 2019 when he allegedly coordinated with lawyer Donny Tri Istiqomah to lobby KPU commissioner Wahyu Setiawan. They aimed to secure the appointment of Harun Masiku, a candidate from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan), as a replacement member of the House of Representatives. The bribery involved payments amounting to SGD 19,000 and USD 38,350, which were funneled through Agustiani Tio Fridelina, a KPU official.

Setyo Budiyanto, the KPK Chairman, confirmed that Hasto, along with Harun Masiku, Saeful Bahri, and Donny Tri Istiqomah, facilitated the bribes to Wahyu Setiawan and Agustiani Tio Fridelina to push through the illegal appointment.

Hasto Kristiyanto is also facing charges related to obstruction of justice for allegedly trying to impede the investigation into this case.

What Happens Next?

The KPK is continuing its investigation into the corruption case and obstruction of justice, with further steps to strengthen the case against all involved parties. Hasto’s case is just one element in an ongoing effort by KPK to combat corruption in Indonesian politics.

FAQ – Hasto Kristiyanto Charged in Bribery and Obstruction of Justice Case

1. Why was Hasto Kristiyanto named a suspect?

Hasto Kristiyanto is charged with bribery related to the manipulation of a legislative seat (PAW) for Harun Masiku and obstruction of justice for allegedly interfering with the investigation. He is accused of lobbying KPU officials to secure Harun’s appointment as a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives.

2. Who else is involved in this case?

In addition to Hasto Kristiyanto, individuals such as Harun Masiku, Saeful Bahri, Donny Tri Istiqomah (the lawyer), and Agustiani Tio Fridelina (a KPU official) are implicated in the bribery scheme.

3. How much was the bribe in this case?

The bribe amounts to a total of SGD 19,000 and USD 38,350, which was allegedly given to KPU officials Wahyu Setiawan and Agustiani Tio Fridelina to facilitate Harun Masiku’s appointment as a legislator.

4. Is Hasto’s prosecution politically motivated?

KPK has emphasized that Hasto’s prosecution is strictly legal and not politically motivated. They reaffirmed that the decision to charge him is based on valid legal grounds and sufficient evidence.

5. What penalties does Hasto Kristiyanto face?

Hasto Kristiyanto faces charges under Indonesia’s anti-corruption and obstruction of justice laws. If found guilty, he could face lengthy prison sentences, depending on the severity of his involvement in the case.

6. What does obstruction of justice mean in this context?

Obstruction of justice refers to actions that intentionally interfere with or obstruct the legal process, such as preventing investigators from gathering evidence or intimidating witnesses. In Hasto’s case, it refers to his efforts to hinder the investigation.

7. What are the next steps in the investigation?

The KPK will continue to investigate the bribery and obstruction of justice cases, gathering more evidence and interrogating additional witnesses. The investigation will ultimately determine the extent of each individual’s involvement and hold them accountable.

8. How will this affect PDI Perjuangan?

This case has the potential to impact the reputation of PDI Perjuangan, the political party to which Hasto belongs. The party will likely need to address these allegations, clarify its stance, and cooperate with the investigation to maintain public trust.

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