KPK Uncovers Corruption Motives of 11 Regional Heads, from Personal Interests to Holiday Allowances

JAKARTA - KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo has uncovered the various corruption motives committed by 11 regional heads from the 2024 regional elections. Budi stated that among the 11 regional heads designated as suspects, they are alleged to have engaged in corruption ranging from position bribes, deviations in the procurement of goods and services (PBJ) for regional projects, to extortion. “In several cases, the motives are also related to personal interests, including to meet needs such as holiday allowances (THR),” Budi added in a press statement on Saturday (18/4/2026). “The results of the KPK’s Directorate of Monitoring study on election implementation show the significant political costs at risk and contribute to pressures in the political ecosystem,” he said. He noted that the cost of organising simultaneous elections amounted to more than Rp 71 trillion, while the funds for implementing the 2024 simultaneous regional elections are estimated at around Rp 42.5 trillion. “This situation is intertwined with vulnerability points, starting from the nomination stage with political dowries, non-transparent support transactions, unaccountable campaign funding, to potential funds entering from interested parties,” Budi explained. Not only that, the abuse of power involving bureaucracy and state facilities also has the potential to become loopholes for regional heads to commit corruption. “After being elected, the risks do not stop, as practices of returning favours often emerge through filling positions, arranging projects, or permits as a form of political cost repayment,” Budi said.