Nanik S Deyang, head of the national nutrition agency BGN, has resigned from her position to seek medical treatment for heart disease abroad. Her departure comes as the agency oversees President Prabowo Subianto’s flagship free meal program, an initiative that has faced some problems in its run. While President Prabowo has accepted her resignation, he has requested that she continue to oversee the agency.
Transition of Leadership at BGN
Nanik announced her resignation via her personal Facebook account on Wednesday, citing the need for a second opinion on her condition overseas. She plans to depart the country the same day. President Prabowo’s aide, Dirgayuza Setiawan, has confirmed the resignation, though the government has not yet named a successor to lead the agency.
Despite stepping down as agency head, Nanik stated that President Prabowo was mulling setting up a supervisory board and asked her to lead this board. She noted that the President is “concerned and feels sorry” for her health situation. The agency itself has not released an official statement regarding the leadership change.
Did You Know?
Nanik S Deyang previously served as the deputy head of BGN before ascending to the top position following the detention of her predecessor, Dadan Hindayana, by the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) regarding an alleged corruption case.
Context of the Nutrition Program
BGN is responsible for managing the free meal program, a cost-heavy initiative central to President Prabowo’s agenda. The program has encountered some problems in its run. Nanik characterized her potential role in the new supervisory board as a way to remain involved while avoiding direct financial responsibilities, stating, “What’s most important is that I don’t have to deal with money. It’s traumatizing.”
The Attorney General’s Office has previously indicated that Nanik could be subject to questioning as part of the investigation, adding a layer of legal complexity to the agency’s leadership transition.
Future Implications for the Agency
The appointment of a new head for BGN remains a pending government action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the head of BGN resigning?
Nanik S Deyang stated she is resigning to seek medical treatment abroad for heart disease.
What is the status of the free meal program?
The program is a flagship, cost-heavy initiative led by BGN that has experienced some problems in its run.
What will happen to Nanik S Deyang after she steps down?
According to Nanik, President Prabowo has asked her to lead a new supervisory board for the agency.
How will the ongoing corruption investigation into the agency’s former leadership affect the appointment of a new chief?
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