Supreme Court Circular on pre-trial rules draws criticism from Roy Suryo's legal team

Legal counsel for Roy Suryo, Abdul Gafur Sangadji, has criticized the issuance of the Supreme Court Circular (SEMA) Number 3 of 2026, which regulates pre-trial proceedings. Sangadji described the timing of the circular as “miris” (sad/regrettable), noting it was released while his client is undergoing a pre-trial process.

Sangadji argued that a SEMA should function strictly as an administrative technical guideline for judges and should not introduce new norms that override existing laws. He expressed concern that the circular could create legal uncertainty regarding the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP). Specifically, he cited Article 163, paragraph (1), letter c of the KUHAP, which he claims clearly dictates the relationship between the examination of a main case and pre-trial efforts, suggesting that main case proceedings should not proceed until pre-trial processes are concluded.