Tifauzia Tyassuma Defense Team Rejects Premature Trial

The legal team representing Tifauzia Tyassuma has strongly opposed the initial trial proceedings, which commenced on July 2, 2026. Their primary contention is that the trial is premature because the prosecution has not yet provided the defense with the case files and indictment. "We believe this trial is proceeding prematurely because the Prosecutor has clearly failed to comply with the applicable procedural law," stated the defense team in a press release on the same day.

According to the defense, they had not received the case files or indictment by the trial date. They argue this oversight disregards the defendant's rights and renders the entire trial process flawed from the outset. The lawyers cite Article 75, Paragraph 6 of Law Number 20 of 2025 concerning the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP). This law, they assert, mandates that the prosecutor must simultaneously submit copies of the case submission letter and the indictment to the investigator, suspect, and advocate when the case is transferred to the district court.

The defense team also highlighted the use of the term "suspect" in the cited article. They interpret this wording to mean that all case files and indictments should be received at the time of case submission to the court, not after the trial has begun. They emphasize that the delay in document delivery is not merely an administrative issue but a violation of the suspect's rights. Beyond the indictment, the defense also stated they have not received the Examination Report (BAP) of witnesses, a list of experts, evidence, digital forensic results, or related electronic documents.

Consequently, the defense claims they are unable to scrutinize the formal requirements of the indictment or prepare a defense statement or exception. "Forcing trial proceedings without fulfilling these legal obligations is a clear violation that directly impacts Dr. Tifa's right to a fair trial and defense," the statement concluded. The East Jakarta District Court proceeded with the first trial for Tifa on Thursday, July 2, 2026. Tifa faces charges of alleged defamation and slander related to accusations of a fake diploma belonging to President Joko Widodo.