Rismon Sianipar, a suspect in the high-profile alleged fake diploma case involving Indonesia’s 7th President, Jokowi, has formally submitted a request for restorative justice (RJ) to the Polda Metro Jaya (Jakarta Metropolitan Police). Despite this plea, Sianipar remains subject to mandatory reporting obligations, as his suspect status is still active.
Addressing the press on Friday, March 13, Kombes Budi Hermanto, Head of Public Relations for Polda Metro Jaya, elaborated on the legal standing. “Mandatory reporting is a critical measure to monitor individuals who are currently under suspect status,” Budi explained, underscoring its role in judicial oversight.
However, Budi clarified that Rismon Sianipar could still be granted certain leniencies should compelling personal needs arise. Such accommodations are contingent on the reasons presented being deemed acceptable on humanitarian grounds. Budi further elaborated, “If the individual coordinates with us and presents a special reason, investigators will certainly provide room for humanitarian considerations. This includes significant Islamic religious observances, such as Eid al-Fitr prayers or family gatherings, which will still be permitted.”
The broader investigation into the alleged fake Jokowi diploma case saw police initially name eight suspects, categorized into three distinct clusters. This extensive inquiry aimed to uncover the truth behind the serious accusations leveled against the president.
The first cluster of suspects included M. Rizal Fadillah, Rustam Effendi, and Kurnia Tri Royani. The second cluster comprised Roy Suryo, Rismon Sianipar, and Dr. Tifauzia Tyassuma (Dr. Tifa). Finally, the third cluster named Eggi Sudjana and Damai Hari Lubis.
In a significant development, on January 16, 2026, Polda Metro Jaya issued a Termination of Investigation Warrant (SP3) for Eggi Sudjana and Damai Hari Lubis. This decision came just two days after the duo visited President Jokowi at his residence in Solo for a reconciliatory meeting, marking a turning point for their involvement in the case.
More recently, Rismon Sianipar also traveled to Solo to meet with President Jokowi, following his application for restorative justice with the police. During this pivotal encounter, Rismon extended an apology to President Jokowi, signaling a potential shift in his stance.
“Yes, of course, I apologized to Jokowi,” Rismon stated on Thursday, March 12, adding, “I also apologize to the public. Especially to relevant parties like Jokowi.” His remarks indicated a broader acknowledgment of the impact of his actions.
Rismon candidly admitted that he felt personally “hurt” by the findings that ultimately affirmed the authenticity of President Jokowi’s Gadjah Mada University (UGM) diploma, a realization that contrasted with his initial assertions.
Reflecting on his internal conflict, Rismon shared, “I also feel hurt by my own findings. Because I have to honestly state that my findings would be scorned, insulted, and labeled as treasonous. But research is research, and what can test research is the result of research.” This statement underscored his intellectual struggle in accepting the verified truth.
President Jokowi graciously accepted Rismon Sianipar’s apology. However, he maintained a clear distinction between personal reconciliation and legal proceedings, entrusting all further legal matters to his attorney, Yakup Hasibuan.
In a further step, Rismon also met with President Jokowi’s son and Vice President, Gibran Rakabuming Raka. Following this meeting, Rismon confirmed that after conducting a more in-depth and thorough review of his research, he ultimately concluded that President Jokowi’s diploma is indeed authentic.
Summary
Rismon Sianipar, a suspect in