The Directorate General of Corrections revealed that former Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives Setya Novanto behaved well while serving his sentence at the Sukamiskin Penitentiary, Bandung, West Java, one of which was by becoming the initiator of a legal clinic program.
Head of the Correctional Cooperation Sub-Directorate at the Directorate General of Corrections, Rika Aprianti, explained that good behavior is one of the considerations in determining whether a prisoner is eligible for parole, in addition to other administrative requirements.
"He's a motivator and initiator. He's active in independence programs in agriculture and plantations; and he's the initiator of the legal clinic program at Sukamiskin Prison. His activities include things like that," Rika said in Jakarta on Sunday.
He explained that the legal clinic provides a forum for fellow inmates at Sukamiskin Prison to learn about legal issues. According to him, the clinic has received prior approval from the prison.
"It's like a peer educator. The inmates support the inmates," said Rika.
In addition to initiating a legal clinic program and being active in the prison food security program, Setya Novanto is also said to have participated in spiritual development and independence programs well.
Rika emphasized that there is no special treatment for any particular group, as all prisoners have the right to an equal opportunity to obtain parole. She also stated that there is no discrimination.
"All inmates who are granted conditional release are subject to review. Their considerations are also reviewed. So, it's not just Setnov; the others are as well," he confirmed.
He also explained that, starting August 16, 2025, Setya Novanto's status changed from a prisoner to a correctional client at the Bandung Correctional Center (Bapas). Setnov is required to report at least once a month.
"[Setya Novanto] will receive guidance from the Bandung Bapas community counselor until April 1, 2029," said Rika.
This means that Setya Novanto will only be fully free in 2029.
Rika said Setya Novanto was released on Saturday (16/8) from Sukamiskin Prison with a conditional program, based on the Decree of the Minister of Immigration and Corrections dated August 15, 2025 Number PAS-1423 PK.05.03 of 2025.
