Prabowo: I am saddened that officials I appointed are stealing public funds
President Prabowo Subianto expressed his sadness upon receiving reports of officials engaging in corruption. Prabowo lamented the betrayal of trust when individuals he appointed and entrusted with important positions misused their power and stole public funds.
This was conveyed by Prabowo during his speech at the inauguration of the Ibu Marsinah Museum and the establishment of a shelter in Nganjuk, East Java, on Saturday (16 May 2026).
“I shake my head, I am saddened, that every day I receive reports of officials who are corrupt,” said Prabowo.
“I am saddened that the people I appointed, the people I mentored, the people I gave honour by giving them important positions, once they are in office, they become corrupt, they steal public funds,” he continued.
Prabowo then recounted when he was visited by the Head of the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP), Muhammad Yusuf Ateh. He said that the head of the audit agency had hesitated to report the findings because they involved people who were known to be close to Prabowo.
“The Head of BPKP came to me, a little nervous, because it was known that some of the people involved were close to me. He asked for guidance on whether the investigation should continue,” Prabowo said.
Upon hearing this, Prabowo immediately gave clear instructions. He emphasized that there would be no special treatment for anyone suspected of corruption, including those in his inner circle or members of his own political party.
“Continue the investigation! There will be no exceptions, whether they are Prabowo’s people or not, whether they are close to me or not. If there are indications, continue the investigation,” Prabowo said.
Prabowo then reminded that office is a mandate and a responsibility to the state. Therefore, he asked all officials and state apparatus to reflect on the struggle of figures like Marsinah, who sacrificed themselves for the sake of justice for the weak.
“Do not let being given authority and trust make you arrogant, feel superior, and feel that the state is foolish,” he said.
On that occasion, Prabowo also warned all law enforcement officials, from the police, prosecutors, to the military, to clean up internally. He ensured that he would not tolerate any officials who become protectors or ‘backers’ of illegal activities.
“Do not let officials be behind the corruption, officials who back corruption, back smuggling, back drug trafficking, back gambling. I don’t want to hear anymore about officials who do not uphold the law, justice, and truth,” he added.