By KUSNANDAR & CO., Attorneys at Law – Jakarta, INDONESIA
The Supreme Court
of Indonesia (Mahkamah Agung) through its Selection Committee has launched the
23rd stage of selecting Ad Hoc Judges for Corruption Crimes (Tipikor) in 2025.
On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 526 candidates took the written exam
simultaneously at High Courts across the country. This rigorous selection
process aims to fill 12 Ad Hoc Judge positions at both first-instance and
appellate courts. This initiative reflects the judiciary’s commitment to
strengthening the quality and integrity of law enforcers in combating
corruption — a chronic disease afflicting the nation.
Corruption is not
merely a legal violation but a parasite that erodes the foundations of national
life. It hampers economic development, widens social inequality, and undermines
public trust in state institutions. Therefore, the role of independent and
competent Ad Hoc Judges at the Corruption Courts is critical to preserving the
dignity of law enforcement. A stringent and transparent selection process is
essential to ensure that the chosen judges possess not only deep knowledge of
criminal and corruption law but also high integrity and courage to resist
various pressures.
The participation
of 526 candidates out of 679 applicants shows a high level of enthusiasm from
legal professionals and other experts to contribute to the anti-corruption
effort. Yet, with only 12 seats available, the competition is fierce and
selective. This selectivity is crucial to ensure that the Supreme Court
appoints judges who are legally proficient, morally upright, and able to
withstand external influences.
The written test is
only the first stage, assessing the candidates’ technical skills. The
subsequent stages — public scrutiny, profile assessments, and interviews with
Supreme Court leadership — are essential to evaluate the candidates’ character,
track record, and ability to understand the social and ethical dimensions of
law enforcement. Particularly, public scrutiny allows society and experts to
provide critical feedback about candidates, promoting transparency and
accountability.
With this
multi-layered selection process, the Supreme Court aims to appoint Ad Hoc
Judges who meet academic standards and possess the moral integrity and fortitude
necessary to uphold justice uncompromisingly. Corruption judges must be
fearless and resolute in fighting corruption, often involving powerful actors
with extensive networks and political clout.
However, the
greatest challenge is not merely the selection itself. Once appointed, these
judges must operate within a judiciary system sometimes vulnerable to
interference, political pressure, and collusion. Therefore, the selection must
be accompanied by institutional commitments to protect and fully support these
judges in carrying out their duties.
Furthermore, the
public deserves open and transparent information regarding the entire selection
process. Inconsistent data or a lack of public knowledge can breed skepticism
and distrust towards the judiciary. By providing accessible and clear
information, the Supreme Court can strengthen its legitimacy and public
confidence in law enforcement.
The selection of Ad
Hoc Judges for Corruption Courts is not merely an administrative routine but a
strategic moment to solidify the foundation of Indonesia’s anti-corruption
judiciary. Amid the increasingly complex nature of corruption, the need for
judges with integrity and competence is more urgent than ever. Effective law
enforcement starts with selecting the right law enforcers.
If this process is
conducted earnestly, transparently, and free from external influences, the
results will have a significant positive impact on strengthening the fight
against corruption. Conversely, if the process becomes a mere formality without
substance, the opportunity to improve the corruption judiciary system will
continue to be hindered.
Therefore, the
public must actively oversee this selection process and urge the Supreme Court
to prioritize transparency and accountability. Together, we can foster the
emergence of courageous, capable, and integrity-driven Ad Hoc Judges — true
guardians of justice for Indonesia.
K&Co - September 26, 2025
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