Jakarta, Aug. 1 -- Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas explained the reasons behind granting clemency to ex-Trade Minister Tom Lembong, defendant in the sugar import case, and amnesty to Hasto Kristiyanto, PDI Perjuangan Party secretary-general, in a bribery case.

At a press conference on Thursday (July 31), he noted that the pardons for the two figures were based on certain considerations.

"The minister of law proposed the abolition and amnesty to President Prabowo Subianto. I signed the letter of request to the president," Agtas remarked.

According to Agtas, the main reason for granting the pardons was for the benefit of the nation and the state.

Other factors included creating a conducive situation, fostering brotherhood among all ci...