Justice Collaborator Bid Denied; Sony Sonjaya's Team Speaks Out

The legal team representing Sony Sonjaya, a former deputy head of the National Food Agency (BGN), has voiced strong disappointment following the Attorney General's Office's rejection of his plea for justice collaborator (JC) status. This decision comes in the context of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption within the government's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program.

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It is deeply regrettable that at a time when Sony wanted to expose all parties allegedly having a major role in this MBG corruption.

Krisna Murti, Sonjaya's lawyer, stated that his client had a genuine intention to reveal the identities of prominent figures allegedly involved in the illicit trade of nutrition program service points (SPPG). "It is deeply regrettable that at a time when Sony wanted to expose all parties allegedly having a major role in this MBG corruption," Murti said, expressing confusion over the prosecution's basis for denial, especially given the perceived validity of the evidence provided.

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I am also confused about the prosecutor's basis for assessment that led to the rejection of the JC. Because, in my opinion, the evidence submitted by my client is very valid for the investigators.

Despite the setback, Sonjaya's legal team stated they respect the prosecutor's decision and will discuss further legal strategies. They remain committed to fighting for Sonjaya's right to JC status and protection from the Witness Protection Program (LPSK).

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First, we assess that the brother of Sony is one of the main perpetrators in the case of the sale and purchase of SPPG points. Therefore, the brother of Sony is not a perpetrator at the second level who can expose other larger parties in the MBG corruption case.

Syarief Sulaeman Nahdi, Director of Investigation at the Attorney General's Office, outlined two key reasons for rejecting the JC application. Firstly, investigators reportedly view Sonjaya as a principal perpetrator, not a secondary figure who could expose larger players. Secondly, Sonjaya allegedly denied his involvement during his last interrogation, a crucial element for JC consideration, which requires an admission of guilt. The Attorney General's Office also seized a car believed to belong to someone close to Sonjaya as part of the investigation.

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Second, in the last examination, Sony also still denied his actions in the MBG corruption case. Whereas, one of the main requirements for accepting JC is that the perpetrator must admit his actions.