Indonesia’s PSI Slams PDIP‘s Hasto for Bung Karno Comparison Amidst Corruption Allegations
Jakarta, 28th December 2024 – The Solidarity Party of Indonesia (PSI) has slammed PDIP’s Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto for invoking founding father Bung Karno’s name amidst corruption allegations. PSI chairman Cheryl Tanzil opined that linking Bung Karno’s name to the current case against Hasto is an overreach.
"I respect the KPK’s decision in naming Hasto Kristiyanto as a suspect. However, using Bung Karno’s name in this context is uncalled for and inappropriate," Cheryl stated. "Bung Karno was once arrested for defending the nation against colonial powers. Today’s case, however, involves alleged bribery with a member of the KPU, Wahyu Setiawan."
Cheryl emphasized that the party respects the ongoing legal process and encourages the public to do the same while waiting for the case’s outcome. She also reminded that the principle of innocent until proven guilty should be upheld.
PDIP Stands by Hasto, Compares Him to Bung Karno
PDIP, through its spokesperson Guntur Romli, stood by Hasto Kristiyanto. Romli clarified that Hasto was not equating himself to Bung Karno but rather emphasizing the importance of fighting against injustice, much like Bung Karno did in his time.
"Not only in the resistance against colonizers, but Bung Karno also stood firm against corruption and nepotism. We believe Hasto is merely following Bung Karno’s footsteps in standing against injustice," Romli added.
Hasto’s Role in the Alleged Corruption Cases
The KPK allele that Hasto played a significant role in two corruption cases involving Harun Masiku, a politician linked to PDIP. The first case involves Hasto allegedly influencing the placement of Harun Masiku in a parliamentary district for the 2019 legislative elections. This led to Wahyu Setiawan, a KPU commissioner, facilitating Harun Masiku’s candidacy.
Hasto was also suspected of obstructing justice when the KPK was attempting to apprehend Harun Masiku in early 2020.
