PDIP TTU Suspends Veronika Lake Over Alleged Intimidation of Doctor Icha

The North Central Timor (TTU) branch of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has temporarily suspended cadre Veronika Lake from all party activities and her duties at the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) over alleged involvement in the intimidation of the late Dr. Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Dr. Icha. The decision was announced as an ethical measure in response to the developing allegations of intimidation experienced by the deceased before her death. Deputy Chair for Honour of the TTU PDIP branch, Carolus Sonbay, stated that the party is taking a firm stance while upholding the principle of presumption of innocence. “The TTU PDIP branch has decided to temporarily suspend Mrs. Veronika Lake from all party activities and duties at the TTU DPRD until the police investigation and the DPRD Honour Board proceedings are completed,” he said in a written statement received by Media Indonesia on Tuesday evening. He explained that the measure is a form of the party’s moral responsibility to safeguard organisational integrity, not a judgement of the cadre concerned. “This suspension does not mean the person in question has been proven guilty. The party continues to respect the ongoing legal and ethical processes,” he said. In its statement, the TTU PDIP branch also expressed condolences on the passing of Dr. Icha. The party condemned all forms of intimidation, pressure, and abuse of authority, particularly against healthcare workers performing humanitarian duties. The branch urged law enforcement to investigate the alleged case professionally, transparently, objectively, and impartially so that all facts can be revealed. Additionally, the party requested all cadres to refrain from making statements that could aggravate the situation and to respect the ongoing investigation. Carolus also called on the public to maintain a conducive atmosphere and respect the family of the deceased. “We invite all parties to jointly oversee this legal process so that it proceeds fairly and with dignity,” he said. Meanwhile, Veronika Lake provided clarification regarding her name being mentioned in news reports and public discussions about the incident at Leona Hospital, Kefamenanu, on 13 June 2026, which was linked to the death of Dr. Icha. “I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of Dr. Icha. May the deceased find the best place with God and may the family be given strength,” she said. She explained that her presence at the hospital was unplanned, occurring after she had attended an activity with a DPRD TTU delegation. On the return journey, the group stopped at the hospital to visit a patient who was a relative of one of the DPRD members. “I joined because I happened to be in the same vehicle. My presence was not a planned visit,” she said. Veronika recounted that upon arrival at the emergency department, a debate ensued between two of her colleagues and the doctor. She then joined in questioning the handling and service provided to the patient. Regarding her remark ‘just call a journalist’ which became a focus, she stressed that the statement was not directed at the doctor personally. “I meant it to draw public attention to transparency and evaluation of hospital services, not to target the doctor personally,” she clarified. She also mentioned that the issue at the location had been resolved by the hospital management together with the relevant parties, including an apology from her colleagues to the hospital and the deceased. Veronika affirmed her readiness to follow and respect all ongoing legal processes should further information be required by the authorities.