Makassar Paskibraka Controversy: Cathlyn Yvaine Lesmana Excluded from National Selection, Mayor Demands Transparency and Fairness

Makassar Mayor Munafri Arifuddin has called for greater transparency and fairness in the selection process for the 2026 National Flag Hoisting Troop (Paskibraka). This comes in response to social media controversy surrounding the exclusion of Cathlyn Yvaine Lesmana, a Makassar student who was reportedly among the top three candidates for South Sulawesi’s national Paskibraka representative. ‘There are Makassar participants; this is a delegation sent by the city for selection. How can there be none? We hope the selection results are fair,’ Munafri stated in Makassar on Wednesday. Cathlyn Yvaine Lesmana’s name does not appear on the final list of candidates representing South Sulawesi at the national level. The situation has drawn public attention and sparked various responses on social media, with some questioning the assessment mechanism and opaque selection process. In response, as Makassar’s mayor, Munafri expressed concern over the situation faced by the local participant. He hopes the entire selection process is conducted objectively, professionally, and upholds fairness for all candidates. Munafri admitted he is not privy to the details of the provincial-level assessment process. However, reports of candidate repositioning have raised concerns. ‘I don’t know the exact issues, but the city government is concerned, especially given reports of candidate repositioning. The student’s scores were reportedly sufficient, so we hope the process is truly fair,’ Munafri added. According to Munafri, the most important thing to safeguard is the mental well-being and morale of Paskibraka candidates who have strived through all selection stages. ‘It’s unfortunate for the children who have gone through the process. They have trained and prepared well. The concern is their mental state,’ he added. The mayor also confirmed that the Makassar City Government has followed procedures in mentoring and sending the delegation. Once candidates are sent to the provincial level, the entire assessment authority lies with the provincial selection committee.