MINISTER Coordinating Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Community Affairs (Menko Kumham Imipas) Yusril Ihza Mahendra received a visit from Philippine Ambassador Gina Alagon on Monday, November 11 2024. The two of them discussed the results of drug case convict Mary Jane F Veloso.
During the discussion, Gina asked that Mary’s case be resolved diplomatically. The Coordinating Ministry for Kumham and Imipas is now considering options for transferring convicts for foreign nationals, adjusted to the requests of their countries of origin.
“We have discussed this issue internally at the Ministry of Finance, Kumham Imipas and have also discussed the points of this issue with President Prabowo (Subianto),” said Yusril in a written statement, quoted on Tuesday (12/11).
Yusril explained that Indonesia upholds the death sentence given to Mary Jane by the South Jakarta District Court in 2010. If the application is approved, the drug convict will be sent to the Philippines and serve the remainder of his sentence there.
“Indonesia respects the request from the Philippine government to consider the transfer of Mary Jane Veloso in the interests of law enforcement in the Philippines,” said Yusril.
However, the request is not free. The Philippines, said Yusril, must recognize Mary Jane’s behavior in Indonesia and respect the legal process in Indonesia.
“Including Indonesian court decisions. “Our country’s sovereignty in taking action against crimes committed by foreign nationals must be fully respected,” said Yusril.
Even so, Mary Jane’s fate was left to the Philippines if she was transferred. Including, said Yusril, if the local government wants to grant him clemency.
“We leave everything to the country concerned,” said Yusril. (Can/I-2)
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**Interview with Yusril Ihza Mahendra on the Future of Mary Jane Veloso**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Yusril Ihza Mahendra, the Minister Coordinating Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Community Affairs. Recently, you met with Philippine Ambassador Gina Alagon to discuss the case of Mary Jane Veloso. Can you share some insights from that meeting?
**Yusril Ihza Mahendra:** Thank you for having me. Yes, Ambassador Alagon and I had a constructive conversation regarding Mary Jane Veloso’s situation. As you know, she is a Filipino national currently convicted in Indonesia on drug charges. The Philippines government is very concerned, and they are seeking a diplomatic resolution.
**Editor:** What specific steps are being considered by your ministry regarding her case?
**Yusril Ihza Mahendra:** We are considering various options for how we can address this issue. One possibility is exploring the legal frameworks and agreements that allow for the transfer of foreign convicts back to their home countries. We aim to align our actions with international standards while being mindful of each nation’s requests.
**Editor:** How important is diplomacy in resolving such cases, especially in the context of drug offenses?
**Yusril Ihza Mahendra:** Diplomacy is crucial. While the legal aspects are significant, understanding the humanitarian implications of these cases is equally important. Many families are affected, and it’s vital to find a resolution that acknowledges the complexities involved, ensuring we follow both legal obligations and humanitarian considerations.
**Editor:** Are there any timelines or expectations for when a decision regarding Mary Jane’s case might be reached?
**Yusril Ihza Mahendra:** While I cannot provide a specific timeline, we are prioritizing this matter. The discussions are ongoing, and we hope to achieve a resolution that respects the legal framework while also considering the diplomatic relationship with the Philippines.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Mr. Yusril. It’s a sensitive issue, and we appreciate your commitment to finding a thoughtful resolution.
**Yusril Ihza Mahendra:** Thank you for having me. It’s important that we continue these discussions to ensure justice and compassion guide our approaches.
