Noel Ebenezer Warns PDIP of Political Threats

Immanuel Ebenezer, the former Deputy Minister of Manpower, was arrested by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) on August 21, 2025, during a sting operation conducted at the Ministry of Manpower office in Jakarta.

The arrest, according to KPK Deputy Chairperson Fitroh Rohcahyanto, is related to an alleged extortion case involving companies that were applying for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) certification. During the operation, the KPK seized cash, dozens of cars, and a Ducati motorcycle.

Law enforcement officials stated that approximately 20 individuals were detained during the sting operation, including Ebenezer and a level II official from the Ministry of Manpower.

Political Fallout and Removal from Office

Following the legal proceedings, President Prabowo Subianto signed a presidential decree formally dismissing Immanuel Ebenezer from his position as Deputy Minister of Manpower. Ebenezer had been serving in the Red and White Cabinet, assisting Minister Yassierli.

The arrest has drawn significant reactions from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP). Party figures, including Guntur Romli and Deputy Secretary General Adian Napitupulu, have highlighted the contrast between Ebenezer’s current legal situation and his previous public stances on corruption.

Adian Napitupulu utilized social media to post a satiric reference to a talk show featuring Ebenezer titled Hukuman Mati & Efek Jera Untuk Koruptor (Death Penalty & Deterrent Effect for Corruptors), reminding the public of the former deputy minister’s previous advocacy for the death penalty for those guilty of corruption.

Background of Immanuel Ebenezer

Born in Riau on July 22, 1975, Immanuel Ebenezer, often referred to as Noel, is a known activist and a cadre of the Gerindra Party. He gained prominence as the Chair of Jokowi Mania Nusantara (JoMan), where he led volunteers in support of Joko Widodo during the 2019 presidential election.

His political trajectory shifted during the 2024 presidential election. While he initially directed JoMan volunteers to support the PDIP-nominated candidate Ganjar Pranowo, he later shifted his support to Prabowo Subianto.

This shift in support preceded his appointment to the government of President Prabowo, where he assumed the role of Deputy Minister of Manpower before his arrest and subsequent dismissal.

Current Legal Status

Immanuel Ebenezer has been officially named a suspect in the extortion case related to OHS certifications. The case is now being handled by the KPK and is expected to proceed through the Corruption Court (Pengadilan Tipikor).

The investigation continues to focus on the seized assets and the involvement of the other individuals detained during the August 21 operation.