PDIP Chairperson Questions discipline of DPR Members as Rieke Diah Pitaloka faces MKD Complaint
JAKARTA – Deddy Yevry Sitorus, the Chairman of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP)’s Central leadership body (DPP), has spoken out about the recent complaint filed against PDIP legislator Rieke Diah Pitaloka with the House of Representatives’ Ethics Council (MKD). The complaint alleges that Pitaloka provoked a negative reaction against the proposed increase in the Value Added Tax (PPN) rate to 12%.
Sitorus expressed puzzlement at the situation, stating, "The action taken by MKD could potentially undermine the critical role of DPR members and erode public trust in the institution. The DPR, as a checks and balances mechanism against the power of the government, relies on its members’ ability to scrutinize and voice their opinions."
The PDIP chairman highlighted that it is unsurprising for DPR members to critically evaluate government policies. Instead, he queried the lack of engagement from legislators who remain silent in public forums. "The real issue should be with members who are indifferent to their responsibilities and the aspirations of the people. The MKD should investigate those who never speak up, either in parliamentary sessions or through mainstream and social media. After all, the people’s money is used to pay these representatives’ salaries," Sitorus stated.
Sitorus believes that MKD should protect the freedom of DPR members to express their views. He warned that using MKD to suppress critical voices could be detrimental to the DPR’s independence. "MKD was established to safeguard the freedom of DPR members to speak out, not to muzzle them. It would be dangerous if MKD were used to silence members who dare to criticize," he added.
It has been revealed that MKD has received a complaint against Pitaloka regarding her request to postpone the PPN rate increase during a DPR plenary meeting. The complaint, signed by MKD Chairman Nazaruddin Dek Gam, was delivered to Pitaloka on December 27, 2024. Although a summons was issued, it was postponed due to the ongoing DPR recess.
In response, Pitaloka questioned the legitimacy of the summons, given the ongoing recess. She also challenged the veracity of the witnesses’ statements and requested information regarding their verification. Pitaloka maintains that she is currently performing her duties as a legislator, making it impossible for her to attend the MKD hearing.
The aftermath of this incident remains to be seen, as the PDIP and other political parties continue to weigh in on the matter. The balance between critical discourse and ethical conduct within the DPR is set to be a hot topic in Indonesian politics.
