EN.malanginspirasi.com – The transfer of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas from KPK detention center to house arrest since Thursday night (March 19, 2026) has sparked varied responses. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) insists the change follows legal procedures and serves as an investigative strategy.
However, anti-corruption organizations such as Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW) and Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) see indications of preferential treatment and urge the KPK Supervisory Board (Dewas) to immediately investigate the agency’s leadership.
KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo explained that the shift was based on a family request submitted on March 17, 2026, processed under Article 108 paragraphs (1) and (11) of Law No. 20 of 2025 on the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP).
“It was not due to illness, but because of the family’s application,” Budi emphasized on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
He added that strict monitoring continues, the investigation proceeds, and house arrest is temporary without hindering the case.
ICW researcher Wana Alamsyah said the decision creates an impression of special treatment for a suspect in the haj quota corruption case, allegedly causing state losses of Rp622 billion. ICW calls for Dewas to probe KPK leaders over the approval granted just seven days after Yaqut’s detention (March 12, 2026).
“This sets a bad precedent, and KPK must be transparent,” Wana stated.
ICW warns that changing detention without clear health reasons risks undermining investigation integrity.
MAKI chairman Boyamin Saiman expressed disappointment, calling it a “record-breaking” move unseen since KPK’s founding in 2003. He compared it to former Papua Governor Lukas Enembe, whose detention extensions were repeatedly denied despite health issues.
“This secretive shift is disappointing and suggests possible pressure,” he said.
MAKI demands detailed official explanations and Dewas intervention to ensure no discrimination in law enforcement.
Responses from Former Investigators and the Public
Anonymous ex-KPK investigators called the decision “odd” and urged immediate revocation of house arrest to maintain investigative credibility.
On social media and among the public, attention focused on Yaqut’s absence from KPK detention during Takbiran night and Idul Fitri prayers (1447 H), raising questions about consistent law enforcement.
Yaqut’s lawyer, Dodi S Abdulkadir, affirmed his client’s full cooperation and support for the KPK process. Yaqut previously denied personal gain from the haj quota policy, claiming it prioritized pilgrim safety.
As of Monday (March 23, 2026), Yaqut Cholil Qoumas remains under house arrest. KPK guarantees tight supervision and will update developments in the alleged additional haj quota corruption case for 2023–2024.
