Pemuda Pancasila Leader Japto Completes KPK Questioning: Ask the Investigators
The Chairman of Pemuda Pancasila (PP) Japto Soerjosoemarno (JP) has undergone questioning at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding alleged corruption involving former East Kutai Regency (Kukar) Bupati Rita Widyasari. After the questioning, Japto said little, instead turning the tables and questioning journalists in return.
“Where are you from? Which media outlet?,” Japto said after being questioned at KPK headquarters in South Jakarta on Tuesday (10 March 2026).
Journalists attempted several times to ask what was discussed during the questioning. However, Japto did not respond clearly.
“Ask the investigators, why are you asking me?,” he replied.
Journalists continued pressing Japto about the subject matter of his questioning. Japto only provided a brief response.
“I was asked about my legal responsibilities,” he stated.
This marks the second time the KPK has questioned Japto in the case involving former Kukar Bupati Rita Widyasari. During his first questioning in February 2025, the KPK investigated alleged payments of money per tonne from coal mines that Japto received jointly with former East Kutai Regent Rita Widyasari.
“Generally speaking, the basis of the questioning involves an investigation order regarding payments per tonne. The investigators will naturally and have already asked about the receipt of these funds, both the process and the flow of money. Generally, that is the scope,” KPK spokesperson Tessa Mahardika told journalists at KPK headquarters in South Jakarta on Thursday (27 February 2025).
However, Tessa declined to provide detailed explanation regarding Japto’s questioning. According to her, such matters fall within the scope of investigation materials.
“That is already part of the investigation materials and I cannot provide further information. However, what can be shared is that the tonne-based payments have been investigated further,” Tessa explained.
KPK Investigation Director Asep Guntur Rahayu previously explained the connection between Japto and Rita. He initially explained that Rita had been charged as a corruption suspect regarding coal permits whilst serving as Kukar Bupati.
Rita is alleged to have demanded US dollars for each tonne of coal that was extracted. He stated that Rita had accumulated millions of dollars.
“But this is different. So whenever a permit was issued, she requested compensation in the form of USD 3.6-5 per tonne of coal successfully extracted. So, until the extraction was completed, the mine closed, and the factory shut down, the case would be concluded,” Asep said at KPK headquarters in Jakarta on Wednesday (19 February).
The KPK is also investigating money laundering offences (TPPU) stemming from the alleged corruption. Based on KPK’s findings, part of the funds allegedly flowed to businessman and East Kalimantan Pemuda Pancasila Chairman Said Amin. The KPK has also conducted a search at Said Amin’s residence.
The KPK continues to follow the money trail. The KPK subsequently searched Japto’s residence. From there, the KPK seized 11 vehicles and cash amounting to Rp 56 billion.