Jakarta – In a surprising turn of events,indonesian authorities have halted legal proceedings against two individuals accused of defamation in a case involving allegations of a falsified diploma attributed to former President Joko Widodo. The Jakarta Metro Police issued a cessation of inquiry order Friday for Eggi Sudjana and Damai Hari Lubis, shifting the case toward restorative justice following considerations regarding the health of one of the accused [[1]]. While the move signals a focus on reconciliation, investigations remain open for other suspects linked to the accusations [[3]].
Jakarta –
Indonesian police have dropped charges against two individuals accused of defamation related to allegations of a forged diploma attributed to former President Joko Widodo, commonly known as Jokowi. The decision follows a move toward restorative justice, prompted by concerns over the health of one of the accused, according to statements released Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Rivai Kusumanegara, an attorney representing Jokowi, stated that the former president had initially sought a trial to establish the authenticity of his educational credentials and clear his name. “Throughout this process, President Jokowi did not direct us toward restorative justice and maintained his desire for a court proceeding to ensure clarity regarding the validity of his diploma and the restoration of his reputation,” Kusumanegara told reporters.
However, Kusumanegara explained that following a meeting in Solo, they received instructions to pursue restorative justice for Eggi Sudjana and Damai Hari Lubis. “We view this policy as situational and rooted in humanitarian concerns, particularly given Mr. Sudjana’s health condition,” he added.
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Kusumanegara indicated he received no further direction after pursuing restorative justice for Sudjana and Lubis, and has since returned to advocating for a resolution through the courts.
“As of now, there have been no further instructions, as the granting of restorative justice was situational and primarily based on humanitarian grounds,” he said. He also confirmed that Jokowi does not intend to pursue restorative justice for other suspects in the case.
The Jakarta Metro Police confirmed Friday, January 16, that it had issued a cessation of investigation order, or SP3, for Eggi Sudjana and Damai Hari Lubis. The decision stemmed from a special case review focused on restorative justice.
“It is true that investigators have issued an SP3 for the two suspects, Mr. ES and Mr. DHL. The investigation was halted based on the law, in accordance with the principles of restorative justice,” said Police Commissioner Budi Hermanto, Head of Public Relations for the Jakarta Metro Police, in a statement.
Hermanto explained that the decision followed a special case review conducted on January 14, 2026, after requests from both the complainants and the suspects, and after determining that the requirements for restorative justice had been met.
Investigations into other suspects in the case remain ongoing. Investigators submitted case files for other suspects to the public prosecutor’s office on January 13, 2026.
Police have also scheduled further witness examinations, expert analysis, and additional questioning of other suspects. The Jakarta Metro Police emphasized that the investigation is being handled professionally, transparently, and accountably, in accordance with applicable legal procedures.
“The investigation will continue for those suspects not subject to the SP3. Investigators are still examining witnesses, experts, and completing case files to ensure legal certainty,” Hermanto stated. The case underscores the Indonesian legal system’s increasing emphasis on restorative justice principles.
(fas/idh)
