What Deterrent Effect?

Jails can no longer be relied on to rehabilitate lawbreakers. After four years behind bars, Muhammad Nazaruddin seems as free as ever to influence the procedures of government projects. From Sukamiskin Correctional Facility in Bandung, West Java, the former Democrat Party treasurer is alleged to have pressured and threatened H.M. Wardan, the regent of Indragiri Hilir in Riau, to follow his instructions.

A short message was sent from Nazaruddin's cellphone. It warned the recipient not to forget to pay an agreed amount of contribution. Nazaruddin feels he played a major role in Indragiri Hilir regency getting a certain project. Nazaruddin, who is serving a seven year sentence for bribery linked to the Athlete's Village project, indicated he would see that the Wardan would also go to jail if payment was not made.