# CNA Explains: What is treason as defined under Indonesia law?

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/cna-explains-what-is-treason-as-defined-under-indonesia-law/
- Published: 2026-11-06T04:44:00+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-06T05:26:36+00:00
- Original publisher: CNA (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/prabowo-wiretapping-treason-indonesia-criminal-code-6529881
- Topics: Government, Politics, World

## Key points

- Former police chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo is a suspect in an alleged wiretapping case.
- Treason charges require proof of intent to prevent the president from performing official duties.
- Indonesia’s new code allows penalties up to death, depending on the offence.

## Summary

Indonesia’s definition of treason is in focus after former police chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo and two other senior officers were named suspects over alleged wiretapping of President Prabowo Subianto and other prominent figures. A government minister said the surveillance could potentially amount to treason, but its motive remains unclear and investigators are still examining the case.

Legal experts say treason against the president or vice-president requires proof of an intention to stop them carrying out their duties. Under Indonesia’s Criminal Code, which took effect on 2 January 2026, Article 191 sets penalties of death for treason intended to kill, life imprisonment if it deprives them of their liberty, and up to 20 years if it renders them unable to govern. Treason can also include attempts to seize power or separate territory from Indonesia; past cases include a 2019 threat against then-president Joko Widodo and attacks targeting Sukarno.

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