Five Central Java Regents Caught in KPK Sting, Governor Luthfi: I Am Exhausted

The Governor of Central Java, Ahmad Luthfi, admitted to feeling exhausted from repeatedly warning regents and mayors within his jurisdiction against engaging in corruption. His statement follows the arrest of the Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widyantoria, in a sting operation (OTT) by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). Anom is the fifth regent in Central Java to be apprehended by the anti-corruption agency throughout 2026.

“As Governor, I am deeply concerned and profoundly regretful,” Luthfi stated at his office when questioned by the media regarding the arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widyantoro on Wednesday (29/07/2026).

Luthfi revealed that he has undertaken various efforts to prevent corruption in his region, involving regents and mayors across Central Java. “I have taken many steps for Central Java Province, ranging from participating in retreats, inviting the KPK’s Supervision and Enforcement Directorate (Korsupgah), working with the Prevention Deputy, to establishing MoUs and integrity pacts. I have even gathered them all and spoken to them directly,” Luthfi said.

However, these measures have failed to prevent regional heads in Central Java from being involved in misconduct or corruption. When asked if there would be further steps to prevent regents and mayors in Central Java from committing corruption, Luthfi expressed uncertainty. “What else is there? Even I haven’t [succeeded]. I am exhausted,” Luthfi remarked jokingly.

When questioned regarding the allegations of official position trading involving Pemalang Regent Anom Widyantoro, Luthfi declined to comment further. “Wait for the official statement from the KPK. I might say something wrong again,” he said.