As Regional Heads Keep Getting Caught in KPK Sting Operations, Home Affairs Minister Proposes Incentives from Local Revenue

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has responded to the spate of regional heads caught in Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operations. Tito stated that his ministry has repeatedly provided guidance to regional leaders. “Yes, we have often conducted guidance, but it comes back to the individual, right,” Tito said after a meeting with House of Representatives Commission II at the parliamentary complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Thursday (11/6/2026). Tito mentioned there is a proposal to provide regional heads with greater operational funding support. However, he noted that other questions arise regarding guarantees. “Earlier, there was indeed a proposal to provide operational funding support for regional heads. In my opinion, that’s a good idea. But, so it doesn’t go astray, right? The question is, can it guarantee anything?” he said. Furthermore, Tito admitted he once had the idea that regional heads should receive an incentive based on the increase in locally-generated revenue (PAD). According to him, such an incentive could push regional heads to be more active and creative. “I actually once had an idea that regional heads could get a percentage of PAD. Why? If the PAD is higher, then the regional head is more active and creative in seeking their own budget without burdening the people. There’s no harm if they are given an incentive from their own work results. Because the PAD will increase, right,” he stated. “But if there’s no incentive, maybe their creativity becomes less spirited, lacking enthusiasm to generate PAD,” he added. It is known that a number of regional heads have been caught in KPK sting operations since being inaugurated in February 2025. Most recently, Muara Enim Regent Edison was arrested by the KPK.