Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi Expresses Concern Over Pemalang Regent's Arrest by KPK

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has responded to the news of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro being caught in a sting operation (OTT) by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). He expressed deep concern over the incident. ‘As governor, I am very concerned and deeply regret this,’ Luthfi said when met at his office on Wednesday, 29 July 2026. His concern is not without reason. According to him, various corruption prevention efforts have been carried out in Central Java, ranging from holding retreats for regional heads, organising coordination, supervision, and prevention (Korsupgah) sessions with the KPK, to signing integrity pacts. ‘We have repeatedly reminded them. After the OTT, we gathered them again and issued another warning,’ he explained. Regarding the alleged buying and selling of positions and gratuities that ensnared Anom Widiyantoro, Luthfi stressed that he is still waiting for an official statement from the KPK. However, he firmly stated that Central Java, particularly the Provincial Government, has adopted a meritocracy system. This system applies to the selection of positions within the Central Java Provincial Government, including Regional-Owned Enterprises (BUMD) and Regional Public Service Agencies (BLUD). ‘A position is a mandate. I also thank the previous Central Java governors who created this meritocracy system. We just need to continue it, and I have added a rule: no entrusting positions and no brokering of positions. If there is any, I will take action myself,’ he asserted. On that occasion, Luthfi also mentioned that he has repeatedly reminded all public officials, including regional heads and heads of Regional Apparatus Organisations (OPD), to ensure every action complies with applicable rules and laws. He hopes that public officials will not take the opportunity to abuse their authority for personal or group gain. Regarding the appointment of an acting Regent for Pemalang, his party is still waiting for the further process from the KPK. However, a team has been prepared to assist the Pemalang Regency Government to ensure that all public services and government activities run smoothly without hindrance.