Mary Jane Veloso’s Future Now in President Marcos’ Hands, Says Indonesia
MARY JANE VELOSO – In a dramatic turn of events, Indonesia has announced that the decision regarding Mary Jane Veloso’s fate will now rest in the hands of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Indonesia has stated its full support for any decision President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. makes regarding clemency for Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipino overseas worker who narrowly avoided execution on drug trafficking charges.
In a video statement on Wednesday, Indonesian Chief Minister for Law and Human Rights Yusril Ihza Mahendra revealed plans to transfer Veloso to the Philippines following a formal request from Manila. He also detailed a groundbreaking policy shift by Indonesia. “We created a new policy that we had never done before. Not to release or give pardon to foreigners convicted by our court but instead we created a policy that is called transfer of prisoners,” Mahendra explained.
The transfer, however, requires the requesting country to recognize and honor the verdict of the Indonesian court. Mahendra stressed that rulings, whether they impose imprisonment, life sentences, or the death penalty, must not be challenged and should be upheld.
“For example, that is the case, then she [Veloso] will serve a life sentence in the Philippines instead based on the verdict of the Indonesian court. And we will fully respect the decision by the authority of President Marcos in enforcing their law in their country,” he said.
The transfer grants the Philippines greater authority over Veloso’s case. Since the country abolished the death penalty, Mahendra noted that the ultimate decision on clemency lies with President Marcos.
“When she [Veloso] has returned to the Philippines, it will be the authority of the President [Marcos] to grant pardon [from the Indonesian death penalty sentence],” he added.
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Mary Jane Veloso’s story has drawn global attention, becoming a pivotal moment in legal and diplomatic relations. Her impending transfer highlights Indonesia’s shift in its approach to foreign convicts and the Philippines’ dedication to securing her return. The resolution of her case will serve as a testament to the cooperation and mutual respect between the two nations.