Central Java DPRD Speaker Denies Involvement in Alleged Free Nutritious Meal Corruption, Claims Not Knowing Sony Sonjaya

The Chairman of the Central Java Provincial Legislative Council (DPRD), Sumanto, has denied involvement in the alleged corruption case concerning the management of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. In addition to denying involvement in the alleged corruption, Sumanto also claimed he does not know the former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sony Sonjaya, who is currently a suspect.

This denial was issued by Sumanto following the viral spread of several social media posts alleging his involvement in the case. “The circulating information is entirely untrue. Regarding the MBG, it is entirely under the authority of the central government. I also do not know Mr Sony Sonjaya,” Sumamin stated in a statement on Wednesday (10/06/2026).

Sumanto expressed shock that his current position was being mentioned or implicated in the alleged corruption case of the MBG programme. He argued that the mention of his office in various social media posts and chain messages is not based on accountable facts.

Sumanto maintained that he has never communicated with Sony Sonjaya. Consequently, he urged the public not to easily believe information that has not been verified for accuracy.

According to him, the dissemination of inaccurate information has the potential to cause misunderstandings and harm parties whose names are being used without basis. “I emphasise once again, I am not involved and do not know the individual concerned (Sony Sonjaya). I have never been in contact with or involved in matters related to that case,” said Sumanto.

Nevertheless, he stated that he will continue to respect the ongoing legal process. “We respect the ongoing legal process. Let the authorities work professionally based on the facts and available evidence,” he added.