Don't jump to conclusions, Saifuddin tells rights group

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution today hit back at rights group Lawyers for Liberty (LFL) over its criticism of his response to claims of abuse at an immigration detention depot, saying it is too early to judge him as he has only been at the ministry for less than a week. 

Speaking at a press conference today, he said he was always open to criticism. 

"Let me listen to all the briefings," he added. "Don't jump to conclusions. 

"They (LFL) never asked to meet me. How can they say I am not open to accepting other views?"

LFL had criticised Saifuddin for saying it was "unfair" to "overplay" the alleged ill treatment of detainees at the Kimanis detention centre, and to give "biased reports" on the matter.

LFL director Zaid Malek said it was unacceptable and contrary to good governance for the home minister to outright dismiss such serious complaints, calling Saifuddin's remarks "one of the most specious and ridiculous responses ever advanced by a home minister in the face of custodial abuse".

Saifuddin said it would be reasonable for him and his deputy to first hold a briefing session with the relevant officials and agencies once they have joined the home ministry.

"Of course, there are aspects on which we will give our opinion," he added. 

"For now, we are listening."