Indonesia police under pressure to probe former president Joko Widodo for corruption

Summary

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo has been nominated as a finalist for the 2020 Most Corrupt Person of the Year, a title awarded by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). This nomination has raised calls for investigations into his potential involvement in corruption. The Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), his former party, has urged authorities to examine Widodo and his family. Widodo has denied the allegations, demanding proof. Despite political tensions following his 2020 presidential support for rival Prabowo Subianto, the investigation into his potential wrongdoing continues to unfold.

Takeaways

• 📰 Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo was named a finalist for the 2020 'Most Corrupt Person of the Year' award by an international investigative journalism nonprofit.
• 🌍 The award, given annually by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), highlights individuals responsible for significant harm through organized crime and corruption.
• 🏆 The 2020 winning title for 'Most Corrupt Person of the Year' went to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
• ⚖️ The nomination has reignited scrutiny of Widodo and put him back in the public spotlight regarding corruption allegations.
• 💼 Indonesia’s largest political party, PDI-P, called on authorities to investigate Widodo and his family for possible corruption.
• 📑 The PDI-P suggested the OCCRP report could be used as a reference by Indonesia’s anti-graft body, National Police, and Attorney General’s Office.
• 💔 Widodo's relationship with the PDI-P had already deteriorated after he supported rival Prabowo Subianto for president, leading to his official dismissal from the party in December.
• ❓ Widodo has publicly denied corruption allegations and requested proof to substantiate the claims.
• 👮 An anti-graft agency spokesperson emphasized that any evidence should be submitted to the proper authorities and stressed equality under the law for all Indonesians.
• 📣 The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in Indonesia's political landscape and raises questions about accountability and governance.

Q & A

Why is there pressure on the Indonesian police to investigate former President Joko Widodo?

The pressure stems from the nomination of former President Joko Widodo as a finalist for the 2020 'Most Corrupt Person of the Year' title by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). This has led to calls for investigation into his potential involvement in corruption.

Who won the title of 'Most Corrupt Person of the Year' in 2020?

The title of 'Most Corrupt Person of the Year' in 2020 was awarded to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, although Joko Widodo was also a finalist for this title.

What is the purpose of the 'Most Corrupt Person of the Year' title?

The title, awarded annually by the OCCRP, aims to promote accountability and draw attention to individuals who significantly contribute to global issues through organized crime and corruption.

How has the nomination of Joko Widodo affected his political party, PDI-P?

The nomination has led to a deterioration in the relationship between Joko Widodo and his former party, the Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P). The party, which was once Indonesia's largest political party, officially expelled Widodo in December after he supported a rival candidate, Prabowo Subianto, for the presidency.

What action has PDI-P called for in response to Widodo's nomination?

In response to Widodo's nomination as a finalist for 'Most Corrupt Person of the Year,' PDI-P has called on Indonesian authorities, including the National Police and Attorney General's Office, to investigate the former president for corruption.

What has Joko Widodo said in response to the corruption accusations?

Joko Widodo has questioned the basis of the corruption accusations and has demanded proof of any wrongdoing on his part.

What is the stance of Indonesia's anti-graft agency regarding the corruption claims?

A spokesperson from Indonesia's anti-graft agency has stated that any evidence of corruption should be brought forward to the anti-graft body and other relevant institutions. The agency emphasized that all Indonesians are equal before the law.

How does the Indonesian public perceive the investigation into Joko Widodo?

The Indonesian public appears divided, with some demanding an investigation based on the corruption nomination, while others may view the calls as politically motivated, especially given the strained relationship between Widodo and his former political party.

What role does the OCCRP play in global corruption transparency?

The OCCRP (Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project) is an international nonprofit organization that works to expose corruption and organized crime. Their annual 'Most Corrupt Person of the Year' title highlights individuals who have had significant negative impacts through their involvement in corruption.

What significance does the expulsion of Joko Widodo from PDI-P have on Indonesian politics?

The expulsion of Joko Widodo from PDI-P represents a major political shift in Indonesia, as Widodo's support for a rival presidential candidate, Prabowo Subianto, during the election caused tensions within the party. This event further highlights the political rift between Widodo and his former party.