By: Muhammad Fahreza
The issue of deputy ministers (Wamen) holding concurrent positions as commissioners in State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) has resurfaced in public discourse. Some parties have questioned the legality and ethical considerations of such dual roles. However, it is important for the public to understand that the appointment of deputy ministers as SOE commissioners is carried out within the existing legal framework and does not violate any rulings issued by the Constitutional Court (MK). In this matter, the government demonstrates its full commitment to the principles of good and transparent governance.
The Head of the Presidential Communication Office, Hasan Nasbi, emphasized that there is no violation of the Constitutional Court’s ruling. He clarified that the prohibition on holding concurrent positions as SOE commissioners only applies to ministers and heads of institutions, not to deputy ministers. Therefore, accusations of legal violations regarding deputy ministers serving as commissioners are unfounded and tend to be provocative.
Hasan also urged the public to carefully read the dispositive section of the MK ruling that has become the reference point of this debate. According to him, misinterpreting the ruling could lead to misinformation among the public. He affirmed that the practice of deputy ministers serving as commissioners in SOEs is not new. In fact, several deputy ministers in previous cabinets held similar roles without causing excessive controversy. This proves that as long as the regulations are not violated, such appointments are legally valid and acceptable within the framework of public governance.
From an ethical standpoint and a commitment to national interests, deputy ministers appointed as commissioners have demonstrated a high level of dedication in supporting the government’s work and optimizing the role of SOEs. Deputy Minister of Trade, Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri, stated that in carrying out her responsibilities, she always prioritizes national interests. For Dyah Roro, any position entrusted to her is not for personal gain, but a form of service to the nation. Her attitude reflects the integrity and moral commitment of a public official in fulfilling their duties.
Similarly, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Arif Havas Oegroseno, stated that he would continue to respect and adhere to all legal provisions, including the Constitutional Court’s decisions. This commitment shows that deputy ministers understand the legal boundaries that govern public office and will not take actions that could potentially violate regulations. With such commitment, the public should remain calm and not be swayed by narratives that are not based on legal facts or governance realities.
The dual roles of deputy ministers as SOE commissioners are not merely about holding positions, but more about ensuring efficient coordination and synergy between government policies and the operational execution of state enterprises. By placing deputy ministers in strategic positions, the government can directly convey national policy directives to the executive level of SOEs. This is crucial in accelerating SOEs’ transformation as development agents and strengthening their contributions to the national economy.
It is also important to highlight that deputy ministers who serve as commissioners do not operate outside the accountability framework. Their appointments follow strict administrative procedures and are subject to both internal and external oversight. In the SOE governance structure, the role of a commissioner is supervisory and advisory in nature, not executive. Therefore, concerns over potential conflicts of interest are minimal, especially if the officials involved consistently maintain their integrity and professionalism.
Placing deputy ministers as commissioners can also strengthen the communication bridge between ministries and SOEs. This becomes vital in the government’s effort to reform SOEs to be more efficient, competitive, and value-driven for the people. With deputy ministers on SOE boards, the government has a direct communication channel to ensure that national development policies are implemented swiftly, accurately, and accountably.
In the context of bureaucratic reform, this policy is part of the government’s grand design to promote efficiency without unnecessarily expanding the institutional structure. Instead of creating new positions that could burden the state budget, assigning existing officials to take on additional duties in a targeted way is an efficient move worthy of appreciation. This aligns with the principles of dynamic, adaptive, and responsive governance in the face of modern challenges.
This step also reflects the government’s courage in adopting policies that prioritize efficiency and tangible outcomes. Amid pressures to strengthen the country’s fiscal resilience, such pragmatic yet legal approaches are a necessity. Especially when viewed from the perspective that deputy ministers within SOE structures can help enhance oversight of corporate performance, which has long been criticized for governance issues.
It is essential for the public to approach policy issues with a calm mind and base their views on legal facts. Citizens are encouraged not to be easily provoked by emotionally charged narratives, assumptions, or political agendas. The government has ensured that the appointment of deputy ministers as SOE commissioners does not violate the law or breach public ethics. It is time for the public to give space for public officials to work in peace and with optimal capacity, and to collectively safeguard the stability of a government that is striving hard to build the nation.
The author is a Public Policy Observer.
