Central Java Governor 'Tired' of Regional Heads' Corruption Arrests

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has voiced his exhaustion and deep regret over the persistent corruption issues plaguing his province, particularly concerning regional leaders. His remarks come in the wake of the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) recent sting operation that led to the arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widyantoro.

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I am very concerned and deeply regret this situation.

Widyantoro is the fifth regent or mayor from Central Java to be apprehended by the KPK for corruption-related offenses in 2026. Governor Luthfi conveyed his profound concern and sorrow over these repeated incidents, emphasizing the challenges he faces in curbing corrupt practices among his subordinates.

Luthfi detailed the extensive measures he has undertaken to prevent corruption within Central Java. These efforts include organizing retreats, inviting the KPK for supervisory and prevention programs, holding meetings with the Deputi Pencegahan (Prevention Deputy), and establishing memorandums of understanding and integrity pacts with regional heads. Despite these initiatives, the governor admitted to feeling bewildered about what further steps could be taken.

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What else can I do? I'm already tired.

"What else can I do? I'm already tired," Luthfi remarked when questioned about additional preventive measures. He declined to comment on the specific allegations against Regent Widyantoro, which reportedly involve the illicit buying and selling of positions, stating he would await the official statement from the KPK to avoid making erroneous remarks.

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Wait for the official statement from the KPK. I might say something wrong again if I speak.