Allegations of Budi Arie’s Involvement in Online Gambling: Palace Ensures Respect for Legal Process
The government has reaffirmed its stance of not intervening in the ongoing legal proceedings regarding the alleged involvement of former Minister of Communication and Information, Budi Arie Setiadi, in a case related to the protection of online gambling sites.
Head of the Presidential Communication Office (PCO), Hasan Nasbi, stated that the government fully respects the ongoing legal process and leaves the handling of the case entirely to the competent authorities.
“The government respects the legal process. Let the legal proceedings run their course. We are confident that the legal process will eventually uncover everything clearly,” Hasan said.
Hasan emphasized that an objective and transparent legal process is key to achieving justice. He stated that those proven guilty will face consequences, while those innocent must be protected from public prejudice.
“Those who are guilty will be declared guilty. Those who are innocent should not be forced to be blamed. Innocent parties will certainly be proven innocent in the end. So, let’s just wait for the process to unfold,” he explained.
He also urged the public and the media not to speculate or draw premature conclusions before a court verdict is issued. According to Hasan, the public must respect the presumption of innocence principle.
“The government respects the legal process and will not intervene in the proceedings themselves,” Hasan reiterated.
Hasan further emphasized that anyone summoned during the legal proceedings must comply and follow proper legal procedures.
“Just follow the legal procedures. We’re not intervening in the legal process,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo stated that Budi Arie could potentially be re-examined as part of the case, depending on developments. He confirmed that investigators would act according to any instructions issued by the courts.
“We have previously questioned him. Of course, we may reconfirm if further indications arise,” Listyo said. ***
