Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) appoints the Governor of Bengkulu Rohidin Mersyah and two other suspects related to the Capture Operation (OTT) within the Bengkulu Regional Government.
Rohidin reportedly asked the Bengkulu Regional Government Education and Culture Service Head with the initials SD to collect IDR 2.9 billion, as well as pay the salaries of non-permanent staff and teachers to win in regional elections 2024. .
Based on the budget, the salary for non-permanent workers and teachers is IDR 1 million per person.
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“SD brother collected IDR 2.9 billion. Brother RM also asked SD brother to pay the honorarium for non-permanent workers and non-permanent teachers throughout Bengkulu district by 27 November 2024. The rate is of honorarium per person IDR 1 million,” said KPK Deputy Chairman Alexander Marwata at a press conference at the KPK Red and White Building, Jakarta, Sunday afternoon (24/11).
Alex explained that the request started with Rohidin’s statement in July 2024. At that time, Rohidin, who was running again as the current gubernatorial candidate, said he needed financial support and regional responsibility in Bengkulu gubernatorial election 2024.
Then, around September-October 2024, Isnan Fajri as the Provincial Secretary of Bengkulu Province gathered all the heads of regional apparatus groups and bureau chiefs in the Bengkulu Provincial Government.
“With instructions to support the program of Brother RM who is running for re-election as Governor of Bengkulu,” he said.
Alex said that Rohidin asked the regional equipment heads and bureau chiefs to deposit money with the governor’s aide Evriansyah alias Anca. The demand for money was reportedly accompanied by threats of dismissal.
Apart from SD, those who invested in Anca were also the Head of Marine and Fisheries Service of Bengkulu Province, SF, Head of Public Works and Spatial Planning Service (PUPR), TS, and Karo Kesra, FEP.
SF gave IDR 200 million to Rohidin through Evriansyah. “With the expectation that SF will not be dismissed as Head of Service,” said Alex.
Then, TS collected IDR 500 million which came from ATK budget cuts, SPPD cuts and staff allowance cuts. Rohidin had told TS that if he was not re-elected in the gubernatorial election, TS would be replaced.
At the same time, FEP provided donations from all work units in the Bengkulu City winning team to Rohidin through Evriansyah which amounted to IDR 1.4 billion.
In this case, the KPK has named Rohidin, Isnan, and Evriansyah alias Anca as suspects. They are kept at the KPK Branch Detention Center for the next 20 days.
The three suspects were charged under Article 12 letter e and Article 12B of the Anti-Corruption Law (UU Tipikor) Io Article 55 of the Criminal Code.
Meanwhile, Rohidin is joined by Meriani as candidates for Governor and Deputy Governor of Bengkulu for the period 2024-2029. Rohidin and Meriani are against the Helmi Hasan-Mi’an couple in the Bengkulu gubernatorial election this time.
(son/son)
2024-11-25 01:42:00
#Bengkulu #governor #pay #salaries #respected #teachers #voting
Considering the KPK’s historical effectiveness and the challenges it faces, what specific strategies could be implemented to strengthen its ability to investigate and prosecute corruption cases more effectively in Indonesia?
## World Today News Interview: Corruption Allegations Rock Bengkulu Governor Race
**Host:** Welcome to World Today News. Today, we delve into breaking news from Indonesia, where the Governor of Bengkulu, Rohidin Mersyah, finds himself embroiled in a corruption scandal just months away from the upcoming gubernatorial election. Joining us today are Dr. Sarah Wijaya, an expert in Indonesian politics and governance, and Mr. Budi Santoso, a legal analyst specializing in anti-corruption legislation.
**[Intro Music]**
**Host:** Dr. Wijaya, let’s start with you. This arrest seems particularly timely, coming just as the Governor is gearing up for re-election. How might these allegations impact the gubernatorial race in Bengkulu?
**Dr. Wijaya:** This is indeed a significant development in a race that was already anticipated to be closely contested. The allegations against Governor Mersyah are serious and could significantly sway public opinion. Voters may question his integrity and leadership if proven true. This could benefit his opponent, Helmi Hasan. However, we must remember that the Governor is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Public perception can be fickle, and the outcome will ultimately depend on how the legal process unfolds and how effectively each candidate addresses these allegations during the campaign.
**Host:** Mr. Santoso, the KPK has stated that Governor Mersyah allegedly sought funds from various heads of regional apparatus groups and bureau chiefs under the threat of dismissal. What legal ramifications does this type of alleged behaviour carry?
**Mr. Santoso:** The allegations against Governor Mersyah point to abuse of power and extortion. Using one’s position to coerce subordinates into providing financial contributions for personal gain is a clear violation of Indonesian law. The KPK has charged the Governor and his associates under Article 12 letter e and Article 12B of the Anti-Corruption Law, which carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. If found guilty, the Governor would face severe consequences, both legally and politically.
**Host:** The article mentions specific examples of how these funds were allegedly collected, including diverting funds meant for salaries and cutting budgets. Dr. Wijaya, how might these allegations impact public trust in the Bengkulu government beyond the gubernatorial race itself?
**Dr. Wijaya:** This case could have a profound impact on public trust not only in the Governor but also in the entire Bengkulu government. Allegations of corruption undermine the public’s faith in their elected officials and institutions. It raises concerns about the proper allocation of public funds and the ethical conduct of those in positions of power.
**Host:**
**[Transition Music]**
**Host:** Let’s shift our attention to the broader context. Corruption is a persistent issue across many parts of the world, including Indonesia. Mr. Santoso, how effective has the KPK been in its efforts to combat corruption in Indonesia?
**Mr. Santoso:** The KPK has played a crucial role in tackling corruption in Indonesia since its establishment. It has successfully prosecuted high-profile cases, including those involving figures in politics, business, and law enforcement. However, corruption remains a deep-rooted problem, and the KPK faces challenges such as limited resources, political pressure, and attempts to weaken its authority.
**Host:** Dr. Wijaya, what steps can be taken to prevent similar incidents of alleged corruption from occurring in the future?
**Dr. Wijaya:** Strengthening democratic institutions, promoting transparency and accountability, and fostering a culture of strong ethical values are essential.
**Host:**
**[Concluding Music]**
**Host:** Thank you both for your insightful analysis. The situation in Bengkulu is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by democracies worldwide in combating corruption. We will continue to follow this story closely and provide updates as the legal process unfolds.
