PDI-P’s Hasto Cristianto vows to fight ‘intimidation’ after being named as a bribery suspect

Jakarta. Hasto Kristianto, secretary general of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), made his first public statement on Thursday after being named as a corruption suspect, declaring his determination to stand up to what he calls political intimidation.

In a video message, Hasto expressed respect for the ongoing investigation against him, which he said was a result of his critical stance on the current political landscape and perceived attempts to undermine the democratic system.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) charged Hasto with corruption and obstruction of justice, alleging that he bribed a high-ranking election official to help fellow PDI-P executive Harun Masik win a seat in parliament despite Harun’s poor election results. Hasto is also accused of instructing Harun to destroy his cell phone and avoid prosecution. Harun has been free since the beginning of 2020.

“After the CCP named me as a suspect, the party’s position is to respect the judicial process. PDI-P is a party that supports the rule of law,” Hasto said.

“However, we will never succumb to intimidation through official institutions or other means. We are prepared for the worst,” he added.

Hasto’s statement was made against the background of growing tensions in the political arena. He hinted indirectly at a long-standing feud with former President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo, who faced criticism from the PDI-P after being estranged from the party over political differences, particularly those leading up to February’s presidential election.

Notably, Hasto refrained from commenting on allegations of his involvement in Haroun’s escape and the bribery scheme.

On Tuesday, members of the PDI-P central committee said the corruption charges against Hasto were politically motivated, accusing them of acts of revenge for his outspoken criticism of Jokowi and his son, Jebran Rakabuming Rak.

PDI-P leader Ronnie Talapesi claimed the investigation gained momentum shortly after Hasto criticized a Constitutional Court ruling that cleared the way for Gibran to run for vice president last October.

“This whole event was heavily influenced by an attempt to politicize the legal system to target a political opponent,” Ronnie said.

KPK chairman Setyo Budiyanto, who took office earlier this month, strongly denied any political motivation for the allegations.

“We are strictly enforcing the law,” Setyo said, stressing that the investigation into Hasto is a continuation of the work started by the CCP’s previous leadership.

“We are just following the evidence and the processes that started from the time of the previous administration,” he added.

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