Ombudsman Ethics Council Questions Lawyers in Hery Susanto Case

The Indonesian Ombudsman's ethics council is examining allegations of misconduct against Hery Susanto, a commissioner currently facing corruption charges. Three of Hery's lawyers appeared before the council on Monday, May 25, 2026, as Hery himself is detained in a bribery case.

The bribery case involves allegations that Hery received 1.5 billion rupiah from PT Toshida Indonesia. This payment is reportedly linked to an Ombudsman report that adjusted the Ministry of Forestry's calculations of non-tax state revenue for PT TSHI. The owner of PT TSHI, Laode Sinarwan Oda, has also been named a suspect. Investigators are reportedly looking into 17 other mining companies suspected of involvement in the bribery scheme. The alleged fraud occurred while Hery was a member of the Ombudsman, overseeing the energy sector.

Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, the Ombudsman's ethics council is proceeding with its own investigation. The council has previously heard from the selection committee for future Ombudsman members. Legally, Hery still holds his position as Ombudsman Chairman as there is no regulation automatically removing leaders upon being named a suspect. The ethics council's decision on whether Hery violated ethical codes will be final and submitted to the President. Sanctions could include dismissal, honorable discharge, a warning, or a written reprimand, depending on the severity of the proven violation. The council, which includes former Supreme Court Chief Justice Jimly Asshiddiqie, is considering the most severe penalty: dishonorable dismissal.