DPD RI Says Inspectorate Function in Central Java Regional Governments is Problematic Amid Surge in KPK Sting Operations

DPD RI member Abdul Kholik is urging Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi to strengthen the role and function of inspectorates, not only at the provincial government level but also in regencies and cities. His statement comes in response to the rising number of regional heads in Central Java caught in sting operations by the Corruption Eradication Commission.

As a DPD RI member representing the Central Java electoral district, Kholik said he is deeply concerned about the surge in sting operations targeting regional heads in the province. So far this year, five regents in Central Java have been arrested by the KPK. That figure makes Central Java the province with the highest number of sting operations against regional heads.

Kholik said that, apart from the high cost of electoral political contestation, corrupt practices within regional governments can also be caused by the suboptimal role of inspectorates. “It turns out that the inspectorate, as one of the forces meant to assist regional governments, is also still beset by many problems,” he said after attending a discussion titled ‘Central Java Emergency: Sting Operations’ at his office in Semarang on Wednesday.

He revealed that a considerable number of inspectorates in regency and city governments across Central Java are currently led by acting officials. “This means regional governments do not really prioritise strengthening the inspectorate optimally. In fact, many have been led by acting officials for two years. That shows it is not receiving attention,” Kholik said.

In addition, Kholik assessed that the problem facing inspectorates in regional governments today is that they work under the mandate of the regional head. According to him, this makes it difficult for inspectorates to offer objective recommendations on issues facing regional governments. Kholik said this condition constitutes a structural problem.

“We really hope the Governor will truly focus on strengthening the inspectorate. If possible, at the provincial level there should soon be a definitive appointment, no longer an acting official holding multiple roles. Then in the regions, the Governor should also instruct all areas to immediately make definitive appointments for acting inspectorate heads,” Kholik said.