Social Minister Uncovers Suspected Maladministration in People's School Shoes Procurement

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Social Minister (Mensos) Saifullah Yusuf stated that his ministry has uncovered suspected maladministration in the procurement process for teachers’ and students’ shoes in the People’s School Programme. “The procurement was carried out in accordance with procedures, but the special team led by Deputy Social Minister (Wamensos) Mr Agus Jabo found instances of maladministration,” the Minister said during a press conference in Jakarta on Wednesday. Gus Ipul, as he is affectionately known, mentioned that the ministry will conduct further in-depth analysis, evaluation, and investigation, which will require time. He also relieved two related officials of their duties, including the Head of the Goods and Services Procurement Services Section as the Commitment Making Officer in the General Secretariat’s Work Unit, and the Head of the Equipment and State Property Sub-section, to facilitate the investigation process. In detail, Deputy Social Minister Agus Jabo Priyono outlined several findings by the special team formed. First, the issue of shoe procurement at the Social Ministry has been clarified by the special team regarding the mechanism documents and the related procurement team. “Second, in general, the procurement process has been carried out in accordance with the applicable procedures and mechanisms,” he said. Fourth, further in-depth examination is needed to ensure whether there are inaccuracies in the goods procurement process and the basis, or the possibility of discrepancies between planning and realisation. “Fifth, if problems are found as suspected above, the relevant parties will be held accountable in accordance with applicable provisions and the involved civil servants will be subject to disciplinary sanctions,” he stated. Sixth, Agus revealed that if any aspects of legal violations are found, the handling will be handed over to law enforcement authorities in accordance with their authority.