PAN removes Regent of Rejang Lebong from party position after KPK arrest

Jakarta — The Central Leadership Council of the National Mandate Party (PAN) has removed Muhammad Fikri Thobari, Regent of Rejang Lebong, from his position as Chairman of the PAN Regional Leadership Council (DPD) for Rejang Lebong following an operation conducted by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).

“The Central Leadership Council of PAN has terminated Muhammad Fikri Thobari from his structural party position. Temporarily, the position of Chairman of the PAN Regional Leadership Council for Rejang Lebong will be taken over by the PAN Provincial Leadership Council for Bengkulu,” said Viva Yoga Mauladi, Deputy General Chairman of the PAN Central Leadership Council, in a statement confirmed in Jakarta on Tuesday.

Viva Yoga stated that PAN respects the legal process currently underway at the KPK.

“We believe that law enforcement must proceed in a transparent, objective, and professional manner in accordance with the principles of justice,” he said.

Furthermore, he stated that PAN has been committed to supporting anti-corruption efforts in Indonesia since its establishment.

PAN will therefore continue to strengthen its cadre development system, enhance internal oversight, and ensure that all cadres entrusted with public office fulfil their mandate to the people with full responsibility.

Viva Yoga said PAN apologises for the arrest of the Regent of Rejang Lebong in the KPK operation.

“We express our apologies for this incident,” he said.

He also stated that PAN is deeply concerned and regrets the actions of the Regent of Rejang Lebong.

“PAN emphasises that the actions taken by the individual involved constitute personal responsibility, violate PAN’s political platform, and do not reflect the values, principles, and commitment of PAN in upholding integrity, transparency, and clean governance,” he said.

Previously, on 9 March 2026, the KPK arrested Muhammad Fikri Thobari, Regent of Rejang Lebong, Hendri, Deputy Regent of Rejang Lebong, and 11 other individuals in a sting operation related to alleged bribery involving projects within the Rejang Lebong Regency Government in Bengkulu.

On 10 March 2026, the KPK brought the Regent and Deputy Regent of Rejang Lebong, who are PAN members, along with seven other individuals to Jakarta for intensive questioning.