Indonesian police shut down fake diploma case after verifying President Jokowi’s UGM graduation

The Indonesian National Police (Bareskrim) has officially closed the investigation into allegations that President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) used a fake university diploma. After verifying original documents and photo evidence from his time at Gadjah Mada University (UGM), authorities declared the allegations baseless.

Police Confirm Diploma Authenticity

On May 22, 2025, Bareskrim Mabes Polri announced it had closed the investigation into claims that President Jokowi used a forged diploma for his 1985 graduation from Gadjah Mada University (UGM). After reviewing physical evidence and conducting witness interviews, the police confirmed that the diploma is genuine.

Brigadier General Djuhandhani Rahardjo Puro, Director of General Crimes, emphasized that investigators obtained conclusive proof. This included Jokowi’s actual UGM diploma, old photos of him during university activities, and testimonies from university officials.

Visual and Testimonial Evidence Provided

The police presented compelling visuals, including photographs of Jokowi:

Participating in a community service project (KKN)

Attending his official graduation ceremony

UGM also validated the authenticity of Jokowi’s academic records. According to UGM’s Rector, all documentation matches the university’s archives. The institution further confirmed his enrollment, coursework completion, and graduation year as 1985.

Political Reactions And Public Response

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) publicly expressed hope that the investigation’s closure will end public unrest and baseless speculation. “We welcome this decision. Hopefully, it will stop the noise and allow the public to focus on more pressing national issues,” said PSI spokesperson Andy Budiman.

Political analysts observed that the diploma allegations had minimal legal foundation but were amplified online, creating unnecessary political tension.

No Criminal Element Found

Bareskrim emphasized that the absence of any forged document or fraudulent activity means no criminal case can be pursued. “We cannot move forward without evidence of a criminal act. The investigation is formally closed,” said Djuhandhani.

Broader Impact: Lessons On Misinformation

The closure of the case highlights the importance of institutional verification in an era of viral misinformation. It also underscores how easily unproven claims can affect public discourse in politically sensitive times.

The resolution reassures both Indonesian citizens and the regional community—including Singaporeans with close political and economic ties—that Indonesia’s democratic and legal institutions are operating with due diligence.

This case serves as a cautionary tale about the influence of misinformation and the necessity of relying on credible institutions for facts. With Jokowi’s diploma now officially verified, the public can refocus on national development priorities. The outcome also reinforces confidence in Indonesia’s legal system and its handling of politically sensitive issues.

Sources: Metro TV News (2025) , Tempo (2025) , Detik (2025) , CNN Indonesia (2025)

Keywords: Joko Widodo, Jokowi UGM, Fake Diploma Allegations, Bareskrim Investigation, UGM Graduation, Jokowi Education