PAN Dismisses Rejang Lebong Regent Following KPK Sting Operation

The regent of Rejang Lebong, Muhammad Fikri Thobari, has been apprehended by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in a sting operation (OTT) on suspicion of corruption. In response, the National Mandate Party (PAN) has dismissed Fikri Thobari from his party positions.

“The PAN Central Leadership Board (DPP) has dismissed Muhammad Fikri Thobari from his party structural positions. For the time being, the chairmanship of the Rejang Lebong Regional Leadership Board (DPD) has been taken over by the Bengkulu Provincial Leadership Board (DPW),” said PAN Deputy Chairman Yoga Mauladi in a statement on Wednesday, 11 March 2026.

Mauladi expressed the party’s concern regarding the unlawful actions carried out by Fikri Thobari. According to him, Fikri Thobari has violated PAN’s platform and principles. His actions do not reflect the values, principles, and commitment of PAN in upholding integrity, transparency, and clean governance.

“PAN fully respects the legal process currently underway at the KPK. We believe that law enforcement must proceed transparently, objectively, professionally, and in accordance with the principles of justice,” Mauladi stated.

Furthermore, Mauladi affirmed that the party will strengthen its cadre development system, enhance internal oversight, and ensure that all PAN cadres entrusted with public office discharge their responsibilities with full accountability.

“To the public, we offer our apologies for this incident. PAN remains committed to continuing to serve the people, dedicated to advancing the people’s interests, and maintaining public trust in building a nation free from corruption,” Mauladi concluded.

The KPK had previously arrested Rejang Lebong Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari in Bengkulu Province in a sting operation on Monday evening, 9 March 2026, on suspicion of corruption. The arrest was confirmed by KPK Deputy Chairman Fitroh Nurcahyanto.

“Yes, the Rejang Lebong Regent,” said KPK Deputy Chairman Fitroh Nurcahyanto when contacted on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

In the sting operation, the KPK team not only apprehended Rejang Lebong Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari. Several other parties involved in the case were also secured. However, the identities of those apprehended—apart from the Rejang Lebong Regent—have not yet been disclosed.

The KPK planned to bring Rejang Lebong Regent Fikri Thobari and other individuals caught in the sting operation to Jakarta on Tuesday morning for further questioning.