Many Regional Leaders Ensnared in Corruption, Governance Training System Questioned
Jakarta — The entrapment of several regional leaders in corruption cases in recent times has drawn scrutiny. One such concern comes from Commission II DPR member Indrajaya, who observed a failure in the leadership development process for regional heads.
He noted that the significant number caught in anti-corruption operations (OTT) by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) indicates weak integrity among regional leaders.
“This wave of OTT is an indicator of failure in developing regional leadership. The recurrence of anti-corruption operations shows that integrity training for public officials has not yet touched the most fundamental moral aspect,” said Indrajaya on Tuesday (10 March 2026).
Specifically, he highlighted the ethics of regional leaders in exercising their authority in the areas they govern.
“Disciplinary approaches, physical training, or semi-military methods may well form part of leadership development, but the primary challenge of leadership in the digital governance era actually lies in the ethics of power usage,” said Indrajaya.
Although the purpose is for national consolidation, he urged an evaluation of regional leader retreats.
“Regional leader retreats require serious evaluation. The intention is good as a forum for national consolidation, but the prevalence of OTT shows that we need to reassess whether retreat materials truly build integrity or merely serve as a symbolic agenda,” said Indrajaya.
This comes as Fadia, serving as Regent of Pekalongan for two terms, admitted to not understanding law and government administration.
“This statement indicates serious failure in the political cadre development process. Political parties should serve as leadership schools that ensure regional leader candidates understand government administration, the ethics of office, and state administrative law,” said Indrajaya.
Not only Maidi, but the KPK has also designated Rochim Ruhdiyanto as Maidi’s trusted associate and Thariq Megah as the Head of Public Works and Housing Office in Madiun City.