Home Affairs Minister reminds regional heads to maintain Forkopimda unity

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Home Affairs Muhammad Tito Karnavian has reminded regional heads to maintain the unity of the Forum Koordinasi Pimpinan Daerah (Forkopimda) as a key asset in achieving advanced regional development free from corruption. The minister stressed the importance of the regional head’s role as coordinator of Forkopimda, noting that synergy between local governments (Pemda), TNI, Polri, and other law enforcement agencies is crucial for stability and effective development. “Please, fellow regional heads, fully understand your position as chair (of Forkopimda) to coordinate the regional leaders,” Tito said in his statement in Jakarta on Friday. He conveyed this during the Musyawarah Perencanaan Pembangunan (Musrenbang) for the 2027 Regional Medium-Term Development Plan of North Sumatra Province in Medan, North Sumatra. He explained that regions with solid Forkopimda tend to handle various issues more quickly, from disasters to social matters. Conversely, a lack of coordination can hinder problem-solving on the ground. “So unity is important; once again, hold regular activities, whether once a month, every two months, that’s fine, just gather,” he stated. In addition, the minister seriously highlighted the issue of corruption and budget waste that still occurs in several regions. Tito warned that such practices greatly impact public trust and the image of local governments. According to him, the proliferation of corruption cases in recent times has created negative perceptions that could affect central government policies, including budget allocations to regions. The minister affirmed that budget management must be carried out efficiently, transparently, and accountably.