Ex-UGM Rector Seeks to Withdraw Controversial Statements on Jokowi’s Diploma

Former University Head Expresses Regret Over YouTube Interview, Cites Family Concerns

An former Rector of Gadjah Mada University (UGM), Sofian Effendi, has formally retracted all statements made in a widely circulated YouTube video concerning President Joko Widodo‘s university degree.

Statement Withdrawal and Justification

In a letter dated July 17, 2025, Sofian Effendi requested the immediate withdrawal of the video, titled ‘Former UGM Rector Opens! Prof. Sofian Effendy Rector 2002-2007! Jokowi Diploma & UGM Campus!’. The video, uploaded on July 16, 2025, had garnered nearly half a million views by Thursday evening. Sofian Effendi stated his belief that the interview was a private discussion among UGM affiliates and expressed surprise at its widespread public dissemination.

“Because I didn’t expect that live streaming was widely spread. If it’s a conversation between fellow UGM people, I think it’s okay, internal,”

—Sofian Effendi, Former Rector of Gadjah Mada University

He further explained that he believed the conversation was an internal dialogue with UGM alumni from other cities, including those from Aceh and Kalimantan. Sofian Effendi emphasized that he does not possess direct evidence regarding the authenticity of the diploma, noting that his comments were based on casual discussions with peers.

Concerns Over Public Reaction and Legal Ramifications

Sofian Effendi revealed that his decision to withdraw his statements was motivated by concerns for his family’s safety, following reports that a group supporting President Joko Widodo intended to file a defamation complaint against him. He feared being accused of spreading slander, which he described as “very scary” for his wife and children.

The former rector also stated that the withdrawal was not a result of pressure or intimidation. He hopes that his letter will mend his relationship with UGM and specifically with the current Rector, Ova Emilia, whose earlier statement on the diploma, dated October 11, 2022, was deemed consistent with university records. Sofian Effendi expressed a desire for the diploma controversy to be resolved swiftly, warning that its continuation could harm UGM and national unity.

Legal Proceedings Underway

The controversy comes as the alleged fake diploma case is under investigation by the Criminal Investigation Police, who have reportedly confirmed the authenticity of President Joko Widodo‘s diploma. President Joko Widodo has filed a defamation lawsuit concerning accusations that his diploma is fake, citing damage to his reputation as head of state and a public figure. The Jakarta Police have elevated the investigation into this defamation case, identifying criminal elements based on initial findings and gathered evidence.

This situation mirrors past public discourse surrounding academic credentials. For instance, a 2022 report by the Center for Public Integrity found that over 100,000 individuals globally had faced scrutiny over their educational qualifications in the preceding decade, highlighting the sensitive nature of academic authenticity in public life (Center for Public Integrity, 2022).

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