Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Warns Regional Heads Not to Betray Public Trust

The Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs, General (Ret.) Djamari Chaniago, has reminded regional heads and state officials not to betray the people’s trust by abusing their positions. He stated that office is a trust bestowed by the community through the democratic process and must be accounted for with integrity.

During a working visit and social gathering with local governments in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, on Saturday (2/8), Djamost emphasized that every official receives a mandate from the people to work for the interests of the community, not for personal profit. “We previously asked for votes from the people, saying, ‘please elect me, please trust me for the progress of my region.’ But once in office, some betray their people,” Djamari said in an official statement.

He expressed concern that many regional heads and officials are still embroiled in legal issues. According to him, such actions not only violate the law but also damage the public trust granted through elections. Djamari reminded that a leader’s term of office is time-limited; therefore, the opportunity to lead must be utilised to serve the community through honest, responsible, and public-interest-oriented work.

“A leader must understand that office has a time limit, so the opportunity to serve the community must be utilised to the best of one’s ability through responsible work,” he said. He also emphasised that honesty is the primary foundation of governance, noting that while lies might temporarily cover mistakes, the truth will eventually emerge and bring greater consequences.

Furthermore, Djamari reminded that service to the nation and state does not end when one completes their term or enters retirement. “I hope all officials and apparatus maintain their commitment to service so that public trust in the government remains preserved and regional development can proceed effectively,” he concluded.