East Manggarai Deputy Regent Denies BNPB Pressured Official Over Quake Aid

East Manggarai Regency officials have refuted claims of pressure from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) on a sub-district head concerning the distribution of aid for earthquake victims. This response comes after a video circulated on social media showing an argument between the sub-district head of Lamba Leda Utara, Agustinus Supratman, and a BNPB official at a health service post in Damer.

Deputy Regent Tarsisius Sjukur confirmed that an investigation into the incident found no truth to the allegations of pressure or coercion by BNPB officials during the process, including the signing of official reports. He explained that BNPB personnel were present to ensure that logistical aid from the central government reached the affected communities in the 12 affected sub-districts.

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After we investigated the incident, it is untrue that there was pressure from BNPB on the sub-district head of Lamba Leda Utara. Including in the process of signing the report, there was no coercion from BNPB officers.

Sjukur elaborated that aid is distributed in stages based on community needs. The local government coordinates the reception and distribution through a main post led by the Regional Secretary. He emphasized the importance of close coordination among all parties, including central government, regional government, sub-districts, villages, and all involved elements, to ensure aid reaches those in need without disruption.

Inspektur III BNPB, Kombes Deden Nurhidayatullah, who is the PIC for disaster management in Manggarai Timur, also denied the alleged coercion. He clarified that the handover mechanism at the sub-district level is the responsibility of the local government through its disaster management agency (BPBD). BNPB's role is to deliver aid to the BPBD post, with the subsequent distribution being a local matter.

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In a disaster situation like now, all parties certainly have great pressure and responsibility. But what is most important is how we maintain communication and coordination so that aid can be received immediately by those in need.