Jakarta — President-elect Prabowo Subianto emphasized that one of the keys to a corruption-free nation is having judges who cannot be bought. He made this statement during a phone call with Deputy Speaker of the DPR, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, while addressing the Indonesian Judges’ Solidarity group in an audience at the DPR building, Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday (October 8).
“Believe me, the key to a prosperous, well-functioning, corruption-free country is having judges who cannot be bought,” Prabowo asserted.
“Because of that, judges must be strong, and their conditions must be the best we can provide. This is my commitment,” he continued.
As Indonesia’s current Defense Minister, Prabowo reiterated that improving the quality of life and ensuring the financial security of judges must be prioritized.
“You can study my past speeches and records. I have always believed that judges’ living standards need to be improved and guaranteed so that they can remain independent and perform their duties to the best of their abilities,” Prabowo added.
Prabowo’s determination to improve the remuneration of judges has been a longstanding part of his vision for the country.
The Indonesian Judges Association recently met with DPR leadership to express their grievances about the lack of salary increases over the past 12 years. They revealed that their current earnings are insufficient to support their families.
For newly appointed judges, their net income is around Rp 12 million, comprising a base salary of Rp 3.5 million and allowances of Rp 8.5 million.
“Our salary now is like the pocket money of Rafathar for three days,” said Rangga, a representative of the judges, referring to the son of celebrity Raffi Ahmad. “Meanwhile, we have to support our families, children, and parents,” he added.
Rangga highlighted that the Rp 12 million salary is inadequate, given the level of responsibility judges hold. Prabowo’s pledge to improve the situation has been well-received as judges await the positive changes he has promised once he takes office. (RR)