National – Marking the 13th World Day against the Death Penalty on Saturday, the Institute for Policy Research and Advocacy (ELSAM) has called on the government and the House of Representatives to eliminate the death sentence.

ELSAM researcher Wahyudi Djafar said that the elimination of the death sentence should be included in the revision of the Criminal Code that was presently being conducted by the House and the government.

"ELSAM sees a hope for Indonesia eliminating the death penalty through the revision of the Criminal Code, which is being deliberated on in the House of Representatives," said Wahyudi on Saturday as reported by tribunnews.com.

He referred to article 90 of the Criminal Code that opened up the possibility of delaying the implementation of the death penalty for up to 10 years, and if the convict showed reform, the death sentence could be altered to a life sentence or even to imprisonment for 20 years.

In connection with those presently on death row, Wahyudi called on the government to impose a moratorium and to revisit all cases to make sure that those facing the death penalty had been given a fair trial.

Indonesia executed 14 drugs convicts, mostly foreigners, in January and April of this year. The executions sparked strong criticism from international communities and caused the souring of diplomatic ties with Australia and Brazil. (bbn)

Source: http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2015/10/10/govt-house-told-eliminate-capital-punishment.html