Indonesia: Suspended DPRD Members Continue to Receive Salaries Amid Intimidation Probe

Three members of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) in Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT), Indonesia, face temporary suspension following allegations of intimidating a doctor. The disciplinary committee has recommended this suspension due to violations of the DPRD's code of ethics.

Despite the suspension, the council members, Therenzius Lazakar, Norbertus Tubani, and Veronika Lake, will continue to receive their financial entitlements. They are also eligible for rehabilitation rights if they are cleared in any ongoing legal processes. This decision was announced by Hubertus Kun Bana, the Deputy Chairman of the DPRD's Disciplinary Committee.

The case stems from an alleged intimidation of Dr. Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Dr. Icha, on June 13, 2026, at Leona Hospital in Kefamenanu. The alleged actions, described as verbal pressure and demeaning treatment of a healthcare worker, are said to have caused Dr. Icha severe depression and psychological distress. Tragically, she died by suicide on June 26, 2026, at her home in Kupang.

The disciplinary committee's investigation found that the three DPRD members violated their obligations to maintain proper conduct and uphold the dignity of the DPRD institution. Their actions were deemed contrary to the DPRD's code of ethics, specifically provisions requiring adherence to their oath of office and prioritization of public interest.