By: Nolam Francesca )*
Recently, law enforcement against corruption has once again been in the public spotlight. Emerging issues often raise doubts about the neutrality of law enforcement officials. However, amidst various criticisms and opinions, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the law firmly, professionally, and impartially.
Attorney General ST Burhanuddin firmly stated that law enforcement must be carried out proportionally and professionally. In a significant statement, he acknowledged that the performance of the Prosecutor’s Office has received widespread public recognition. However, at the same time, sharp scrutiny continues to be directed at the institution he leads. He stated that the higher a tree grows, the stronger the wind blows.
This statement illustrates the dynamics faced by law enforcement institutions such as the Prosecutor’s Office, which are increasingly tested even as their success increases. For Burhanuddin, these challenges must not weaken the morale of the officers. He emphasized to all his staff the need to remain focused on carrying out their duties with high professionalism and unwavering integrity.
In the context of eradicating corruption, the Attorney General emphasized that the law must be enforced impartially. Anyone who violates the law must be prosecuted fairly and transparently. The principle of “everyone is equal before the law” is a key tenet of law enforcement in today’s era. There must be no impression that the law is only harsh on those below but blunt on those above.
Similarly, the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has also demonstrated its firm stance in handling corruption cases. KPK Spokesperson, Budi Prasetyo, emphasized that all legal processes, including investigations, are carried out professionally based on evidence gathered by the investigative team.
According to Budi, anyone whose testimony is needed during the investigation can be summoned, without exception. Budi emphasized that the KPK works based on legal procedures and available evidence, not on political pressure or public opinion. The KPK places legal objectivity as the primary foundation in every action taken.
In the region, the Head of the Muara Enim District Attorney’s Office, Dr. Rudi Iskandar, demonstrated a similar spirit. In his statement, Rudi conveyed his commitment to zero tolerance for corruption by anyone, including local government officials. He stated that his office will not be selective and will not hesitate to take firm action against any officials in the Muara Enim Regency Government if proven to have violated the Corruption Act (Tipikor).
Rudi added that the principle of handling corruption cases must prioritize proper and correct legal principles. This is necessary so that the legal process is not only fair but also has a deterrent effect. A professional legal approach also reflects the institution’s commitment to the public, who have long hoped for a clean government free from corrupt practices.
This joint commitment between the Prosecutor’s Office, the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), and local law enforcement is a strong signal that the government is serious about implementing the legal reform agenda, particularly in the area of corruption eradication. Consistent and impartial law enforcement is a crucial prerequisite for building public trust in the state.
However, it cannot be denied that this process is often influenced by socio-political dynamics. Issues of criminalization, counterattacks from those who feel threatened, and attempts to delegitimize legal institutions frequently occur. Therefore, it is crucial for the public to remain vigilant in responding to information and not fall prey to narratives that undermine the government’s commitment to law enforcement.
Furthermore, law enforcement must also be able to build transparency and accountability, and communicate enforcement measures openly. The public has the right to know, and legal institutions are obligated to maintain accountability in the public eye. This is a healthy symbiosis between the government and the people, who both desire a country free from corruption.
The current government has provided significant space for the rule of law. The President’s commitment to strengthening law enforcement institutions and supporting their independence is commendable. These efforts are a crucial part of building a government system that is not only democratic, but also clean and imbued with integrity.
Amidst the various dynamics and challenges, the public needs to continue to trust that the government is serious about eradicating corruption fairly and impartially. The commitment of law enforcement officials, from the central government to the regional governments, is clear evidence that the law is upheld based on truth, not self-interest.
Now is the time for the public to support this major agenda by remaining critical.It’s a rigorous yet constructive approach. Believe me, when the law is enforced consistently without discrimination, social justice and national integrity will be strengthened. Let’s work together to maintain the hope that Indonesia can become a just, clean, and dignified nation governed by the rule of law.
)* The author is a legal observer
