Former Chief Executive of the Telecommunication and Information Accessibility Agency (Bakti) of the Ministry of Communication and Information, Anang Achmad Latif, presented his defense statement in the trial where he faces an 18-year prison sentence in a corruption case related to the BTS project. Anang also expressed his frustration with former Minister of Communication and Information, Johnny G Plate.

"My experience working with Mr. Johnny G Plate and the current case at hand have made me realize that I misjudged him all along," Anang stated during his personal plea in the trial at the Jakarta Corruption Court on Wednesday (1/11/2023).

Anang had hoped that Plate would be a leader who would protect and support his subordinates. However, he accused Plate of acting cowardly in this case.

"I expected him to be a leader who would nurture and take responsibility for his subordinates, but in this case, he has proven to be nothing more than a coward," he said.

Anang claimed that Plate did not feel guilty in the corruption case and was only concerned with saving himself.

"He shielded himself as if he were blameless. He claimed that everything that happened during the project's execution was entirely my responsibility. I could only remain silent, listening to his arguments in self-defense," Anang explained.

Anang acknowledged Plate's political prowess and expressed regret for his own actions in this case.

"I admit that he is a skillful politician. Perhaps, it was a significant mistake on my part not to reveal the whole truth because my conscience clashed with my thoughts," he added.

Previously, Anang Achmad Latif had been sentenced to 18 years in prison. The prosecutor believed that Anang was guilty of participating in corruption and money laundering related to the BTS 4G project of the Ministry of Communication and Information.

He was also charged with money laundering, with an alleged total value of Rp 5 billion for purchasing a luxury motorcycle, car, and a house.

Despite having a monthly income of Rp 150 million, Anang's spending was deemed inconsistent with his profile.

The prosecutor argued that there were no justifications or excuses for Anang's actions, and he should be sentenced accordingly. In addition to the prison term, Anang faced a fine of Rp 1 billion or 12 months of imprisonment and was required to pay Rp 5 billion in restitution.