KPK Focuses on Investigating Hasto, PDIP Should Not Obstruct Central and Regional Government Synergy Retreat

Jakarta – The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed its commitment to remain focused on investigating the alleged bribery case related to the Interim Replacement (PAW) process of members of the House of Representatives (DPR) which implicated PDIP Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto. KPK Spokesperson Tessa Mahardhika Sugiarto emphasized that the determination of Hasto as a suspect was purely based on sufficient evidence and was not part of the politicization of power.
“For the umpteenth time, the KPK has stated that the determination of HK as a suspect is not part of the politicization of power,” Tessa emphasized.
She added that the evidence held was more than two and was strong enough to continue the legal process against Hasto.
This case involved funds amounting to Rp400 million which allegedly came from Hasto, channeled through his staff, Kusnadi, to former KPU Commissioner Wahyu Setiawan. The funds were allegedly used to take care of the PAW process for fugitive Harun Masiku.
“Kusnadi left the money wrapped in a brown envelope in a black backpack,” said Acting Head of the KPK Legal Bureau, Iskandar, in a trial at the South Jakarta District Court.
Hasto’s arrest triggered a strong reaction from PDIP General Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri, who instructed all regional heads from PDIP to postpone their attendance at the regional head retreat in Magelang. This retreat is actually aimed at strengthening synergy between the central and regional governments, instilling the principles of clean governance, and fostering a spirit of public service among regional heads.
Political observer from Trunojoyo University, Madura, Dr. Surokhim, assessed that PDIP’s move was a form of political expression that could actually harm the relationship between PDIP and the central government.
“The arrest of Mas Hasto is a heavy blow for PDIP, especially for Bu Mega personally. However, the move to withdraw cadres from the retreat could be considered a form of political tantrum,” explained Surokhim.
The absence of PDIP cadres from the event could weaken efforts to synergize the central and regional governments which are currently the main focus of President Prabowo Subianto.
“If it is true that PDIP cadres are not present, it could be a signal of political resistance against the government,” he added.
Meanwhile, support for the KPK came from the Anti-Corruption Student and Community Coalition which urged the KPK to remain focused on resolving the Harun Masiku case and Hasto’s alleged involvement.
“Arrest Harun Masiku, thoroughly investigate Hasto! The KPK should not be afraid, fight corruption to the end!” shouted Akrom, the coordinator of the action.
KPK Chairman, Setyo Budiyanto, stated that his party continues to hunt down Harun Masiku who is still a fugitive since disappearing in January 2020.
“His trail is still unknown, but the search effort remains the KPK’s main priority,” he said in the latest press conference.
KPK Director of Investigation, Asep Guntur Rahayu, revealed that investigators are currently investigating who helped Harun Masiku in his escape.
“People who run away definitely need living expenses and logistics, including accommodation and transportation. This is what we are currently investigating,” he explained.