The leadership of Muhammadiyah, one of Indonesia’s largest Islamic mass organizations, has issued a firm call to the Indonesian National Police (Polri) to conduct a comprehensive, objective, and transparent investigation into the explosive illegal wiretapping scandal. The covert operations have reportedly targeted high-ranking state officials, most notably President Prabowo Subianto, alongside influential political figures, mass organization leaders, media executives, civil society activists, and prominent national entrepreneurs.
Speaking in Surabaya on Thursday, November 5, the General Chairperson of the Central Board (PP) of Muhammadiyah, Haedar Nashir, emphasized that upholding
the rule of law remains paramount in addressing this unprecedented breach of privacy and national security. He asserted that any legal proceedings stemming from the investigation must strictly adhere to due process, ensuring fairness and accountability to maintain public trust in the state’s legal apparatus.
"Every process that has to do with the law and legal proceedings must be enforced fairly, objectively, and transparently. I am certain this is our fundamental foundation because we are a nation governed by law," Haedar stated during his address at the Universitas Muhammadiyah Surabaya (Umsura).
The unfolding scandal has sent shockwaves through Indonesia’s political and security landscapes, drawing intense scrutiny from legal experts, civil liberties groups, and the general public. As investigations led by the Indonesian National Police Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim Polri) deepen, the scope of the unauthorized surveillance has underscored deep-seated vulnerabilities within the nation’s critical communication infrastructure.
Chronology and Background of the Wiretapping Operation
The illicit surveillance operation, which has triggered a major political and institutional crisis, allegedly took place over a sustained period spanning from 2025 to 2026. Investigators uncovered a systematic effort to intercept sensitive communications across multiple sectors of Indonesian leadership. The targeted network was extensive, encompassing not only the inner circle of the presidency but also key decision-makers across government ministries, legislative bodies, journalistic institutions, and the private sector.
The gravity of the case became fully apparent when Bareskrim Polri initiated aggressive enforcement actions, culminating in the high-profile identification and designation of several senior law enforcement officials as suspects. Among the initial individuals implicated in the scandal are three high-ranking police generals.
The first is former Chief of the Indonesian National Police and current Head of the Presidential Staff Office, Listyo Sigit Prabowo (LSP). The second is the Head of the Legal Division (Kadivkum) of the National Police, Inspector General Ahrie Sonta Nasution (ASN). The third is Senior Police Lecturer Principal Level 1 at the Police Staff and Leadership School (Sespim Lemdiklat Polri), Inspector General Eko Hadi Santoso (EH).
The scope of the conspiracy widened further when investigators announced an additional suspect on Tuesday night, identified by the initials SU. According to police findings, SU allegedly functioned as a coordinator and supervisor for Ahrie Sonta Nasution and Eko Hadi Santoso, overseeing both the execution of the illegal wiretapping operations and the subsequent systematic deletion of intercepted digital data and audio files to cover up the illicit activities.
Implications for National Stability and Constitutional Governance
The involvement of high-ranking security officials in an operation targeting the head of state and national leaders has raised critical questions regarding command structures, institutional oversight, and the security of executive communications. Legal analysts have pointed out that unauthorized wiretapping by state apparatus personnel violates constitutional privacy rights and undermines the integrity of democratic institutions.
In response to the escalating political tension and public anxiety, Haedar Nashir voiced robust support for President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. He stressed the importance of ensuring that the executive branch continues to govern effectively in accordance with the constitution, prioritizing the welfare, unity, justice, and prosperity of the Indonesian populace.
"We also support the President’s steps to continue leading this nation and state based on the constitution, and for the utmost benefit of the people’s lives, for unity, justice, and prosperity," Haedar remarked.
The broader implications of the scandal extend into the realms of national security and economic stability. Observers note that the compromise of communications involving national entrepreneurs and civil society leaders could undermine investor confidence and create an atmosphere of mutual distrust among key stakeholders. Consequently, a transparent legal resolution is viewed by political analysts as an absolute necessity to restore institutional credibility and prevent prolonged political instability.
Public Appeal for Calm Amid Rising Polarization
With discussions surrounding the wiretapping scandal dominating public discourse across traditional and social media platforms, concerns have grown regarding potential polarization. In light of these risks, Haedar issued a direct appeal to the Indonesian public, urging citizens to exercise restraint, avoid emotional provocations, and refrain from engaging in divisive rhetoric.
He acknowledged that healthy debates and diverse political opinions are natural components of a democratic society, provided they do not escalate into open confrontation or deepen societal fractures at the grassroots level.
"Because this has already been handled by the authorities and authorized parties, the public is asked to remain calm and not be divided. People are allowed to discuss and engage in dynamics, but we must not allow ourselves to be split into two opposing factions that confront one another," Haedar cautioned.
The Muhammadiyah leader underscored that trust in the judicial process is essential. By allowing Bareskrim Polri to conduct its investigation without external interference or sensationalized speculation, the nation can achieve a just resolution while preserving social cohesion.
Directives for Muhammadiyah Members and Civil Society Engagement
Beyond addressing the national political climate, Haedar used the platform to deliver specific guidance to members and institutions affiliated with Muhammadiyah. He reminded the organization’s vast network of followers to remain steadfast in their mission of social service, humanitarian aid, and community empowerment, particularly during times of economic hardship.
He urged Muhammadiyah chapters nationwide to maintain the organization’s moral standing as an inclusive space dedicated to public welfare. Amid economic pressures felt by various segments of society, Haedar emphasized that tangible contributions to grassroots communities must remain a top priority.
"Make Muhammadiyah a home for everyone, and let Muhammadiyah continue to provide guidance and benefits for the lives of many people. Because many in our society are living difficult lives, they must be served by all of us," he concluded.
As Bareskrim Polri continues its probe into the syndicate behind the illegal surveillance network, further developments are anticipated. Legal experts and civil society watchdogs will closely monitor the judicial proceedings to ensure accountability at all levels, marking a critical test for Indonesia’s commitment to institutional transparency and the supremacy of the law.
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