President Jokowi Reacts to PDIP Secretary-General’s Status as Suspect in Graft Case
In a recent development, Komisi Pemberantasan Korupsi (KPK) has named PDIP Secretary-General, Hasto Kristiyanto, as a suspect in a corruption case involving former KPU commissioner, Wahyu Setiawan. While no longer in office, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has found himself entangled in the case, with his name still being mentioned in relation to Hasto’s status.
"I respect the ongoing legal process," said Jokowi during an event at the Graha Saba Buana building in Solo, Central Java, on Wednesday (25/12/2024). When asked about his name being connected to the case, Jokowi responded calmly, stating that he is no longer in office.
KPK announced Hasto as a suspect in the case involving alleged bribery of Wahyu Setiawan during a press conference at their headquarters in South Jakarta on Tuesday (24/12). KPK chairman Setyo Budiyanto explained that Hasto played a role in placing Harun Masiku in the South Sumatra I electoral district and attempting to secure his position in the DPR via a Patent of Appointment (PAW). Hasto even reportedly hindered Riezky Aprilia’s planned installation as an MP by withholding her invitation letter.
The DPP PDI-P’s deputy chairman, Rony Talapessy, has suggested that Hasto’s naming as a suspect is politically motivated. He stated that the true reason behind Hasto’s involvement is his party’s stance against attempts to undermine democracy and the constitution, as well as abuse of power during the final stages of Jokowi’s presidency.
Although no longer in office, Jokowi maintains that he has no issue with his name being linked to the case. "It’s fine if my name is involved in this case," he said, emphasizing that he is retired now.
(afn/afn)