An Indonesian court has sentenced former parliament speaker Setja Novant to 15 years in prison for his role in the theft of $170 million in state money, a major victory for the country's anti-corruption police.
Novanto told the judges he would consider an appeal.
The verdict stated that he became rich by abusing the powers and opportunities he was in thanks to his political position.
Prosecutors alleged that Novanto was among some 80 officials and several firms that used the introduction of the electronic ID system in 2011 and 2012 to embezzle more than a third of the intended funds.
During the trial, Novanto denied his guilt but also used his knowledge of the conspiracy to accuse other politicians in order to improve his position.
Several other leading politicians, including ministers in the government of President Joko Widodo, are also possibly involved in the scandal.
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